Vitamins are organic substances that the body requires in very small amounts. Vitamins act as a substance that helps the control and start other reactions within the body. Vitamins are not an energy source, nor do they contribute to body mass.There are two types of vitamins: water soluable and fat soluable.

Water Soluable Vitamins

B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, Biotin, Folate, Vitamin C, Vitamin A

Fat Soluable Vitamins

Vitamin A, D, E, K

Many fitness and dietitians feel that most people don’t consume the proper vitamins and minerals from our daily diet alone. There are various reasons for this, such as the way food is prepared or processed, but is also effected by the foods that we choose to eat. While this idea is debatable to some people, the fact that you’re working out directly increases the body’s need to consume more vitamins and minerals to recuperate. Research has proven that supplements can be very beneficial in preventing a number of diseases.

Some athletes feel the need to mega-dose on vitamins due to the common believe that “more is better”. In general mega-doses of vitamins are water soluble, meaning the body will simply release excess vitamins during urination. Other vitamins are fat soluable and can be stored in the body for long periods of time. Taking mega-does over long periods of time can lead to the body storing toxic levels. You should only take a reasonable amount and avoid mega-dosing on vitamins and minerals if possible.

It is also debated whether taking synthetic vitamins has the same effect as consuming them in your daily diet. Most nutritional experts will attest that it makes no difference to the body if you consume the synthetic version. You body will not be able to tell the difference between the two.