The ABCs of Vitamins

There are 13 vitamins that are considered essential for the body to function.

Vitamin A: For healthy teeth, bones, soft tissue and skin

Vitamin C: For healthy teeth, gums and tissue; absorbing iron; and healing wounds

Vitamin D: For healthy teeth and bones and for absorbing and maintaining calcium and phosphorous in the blood

Vitamin E: For helping red blood cells form and helping the body use vitamin K

Vitamin K: For helping the blood coagulate

Vitamin B1 (thiamine): For helping change carbohydrates into energy and for nerve cells and the heart

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): For body growth and production of red blood cells

Vitamin B3 (niacin): For helping lower cholesterol and maintain healthy skin and nerves

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): For helping the body use protein, form red blood cells and maintain brain function

Vitamin B12: For metabolism, red blood cells and the central nervous system

Biotin: For metabolism, hormones and cholesterol

Folate (folic acid): For working with vitamin B12 to help form red blood cells and for tissue growth and cell function

Pantothenic acid: For growth, metabolism and producing hormones