Vitamins and minerals are substances the human body needs to function; they are taken from diet and they represent major nutrients categories together with fatty acids, protein and sugars. Most nutritional supplements contain a balanced combination of vitamins and minerals, with the mention that some products are more specialized than others. Thus, there are suppleme nts that only include one essential mineral and a vitamin that helps to its metabolism. Thus, calcium depends on vitamin D while magnesium works in combination with vitamin B6, to give just two relevant examples here.

All vitamins and minerals are specialized, and a balanced diet will normally provide enough for the proper body functioning. Mention must be made that people who suffer from chronic disease or those who have developed health problems due to mineral or vitamin deficiency which usually require supplementation. When you've been diagnosed with osteoporosis you will need more than just a diet rich in dairy products. You will most certainly need a calcium supplement combined with vitamins D and C to assist to the absorption of the mineral.

Then, eye problems can often be treated or improved by the administration of the right combination of vitamins and minerals. Antioxidants like vitamin A, C and E together with zinc and selenium improve vision, prevent macular degeneration, cataract and glaucoma formation. They are also known to improve the condition of people who suffer from the dry eye syndrome. Do not use vitamin supplements without talking to your doctor first. It usually takes medical expertise to recognize and treat vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

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