Vitamins and minerals: What They Do, Medicines
Vitamins and minerals are nutrients the body needs in small amounts for normal functioning. Most people get enough from a varied diet. Supplements are used where the diet falls short or a doctor finds a shortfall. More is not better, because high doses of some vitamins and minerals can cause harm.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Vitamins and minerals work?
Vitamins and minerals are used by the body in many everyday processes, such as making blood cells, releasing energy from food and keeping skin and nerves healthy. A supplement adds to what comes from food; it does not replace a balanced diet.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Vitamins and minerals. They are listed A to Z.
- Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3): Cholecalciferol is vitamin D3, which helps the body absorb calcium and keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy.
- Ferrous ascorbate: Ferrous ascorbate is an iron salt used as a supplement to replace iron when the body is short of it.
- Folic acid: Folic acid is the supplement form of folate, a B vitamin the body needs to make healthy red blood cells.
- Methylcobalamin: Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12, which the body needs to make healthy red blood cells and keep nerves working.
- Vitamin B complex: Vitamin B complex is a group of eight B vitamins.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a vitamin that keeps skin, blood vessels, bones and cartilage healthy and helps wounds heal.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a vitamin that helps keep skin and eyes healthy and supports the body's defence against infection.
- Zinc: Zinc is a mineral that helps the body make new cells and enzymes, use carbohydrate, fat and protein, and heal wounds.
Common questions
Do I need a vitamin supplement?
Most people can get what they need from a varied, balanced diet. Some groups, such as pregnant women, people on restricted diets or those with a diagnosed shortfall, may be advised a supplement. A doctor or pharmacist can say whether one suits you.
Can I take too much of a vitamin or mineral?
Yes. High doses of some, such as vitamin B6, zinc and vitamin E, can cause harm over time. Check the amounts on the pack, avoid taking several supplements with the same ingredient together, and ask a doctor or pharmacist if unsure.
Is a supplement a substitute for food?
No. Supplements add to the diet and cannot replace the mix of nutrients, fibre and other substances in a balanced diet. Follow the label or your doctor's advice about any product you take.
Sources
- Vitamin C. NHS (UK)
- Vitamin E. NHS (UK)
- B vitamins and folic acid. NHS (UK)
- Others (zinc, copper, selenium, magnesium). NHS (UK)