NUTRITION

Vitamin B3, also called niacin, is one of the water-soluble vitamins, belonging to the vitamin B complex. It can be obtained from many food sources and fortified food products, and can be taken as a dietary supplement. However, important to note is that only 30% of niacin is absorbed, and with niacin’s role in cellular metabolism, having poor nutrition can cause potential health issues.

Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble vitamin that helps our body to metabolize macronutrients and create energy. Riboflavin can be obtained from foods, but even with consumption of (processed) fortified food products, vitamin B2 deficiency can still occur. A better understanding of vitamin B2 might be helpful to improve our health.

Calcium is an essential mineral, important for bone, teeth, nerve and muscle health. It is especially important in adolescence in order to support bone structure, function and growth. As there are particular groups of people that have a higher calcium requirement, we need to know if we are getting enough calcium from our diet or if there is a need for extra supplementation.

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient, vital for our physical and mental health, and more research is now coming out on complex interactions between vitamin D and different body functions and processes. In children, deficiency in vitamin D can have a significant impact on their health and development.

Thiamine is an essential nutrient for converting food into energy. It is involved in glucose metabolism and is a key player in nerve, muscle and heart function. Vitamin B1 can be found in many food sources but sometimes deficiency can occur in vulnerable populations. In this article we will explore the uses of thiamine for our health and the possible side effects.