Food for Today ©2010Chapter 8: Vitamins & MineralsChapter SummaryVitamins and minerals are micronutrients that help to keep the body healthy. Vitamins work with enzymes to keep cells healthy and active. Antioxidants are special vitamins and minerals that protect against free radicals. Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water and pass easily through the bloodstream during digestion. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the liver for the body to use when needed. Minerals often team with vitamins in chemical reactions. Major minerals are those that the body requires 100 mg or more of each day. The body needs less than 100 daily mg of trace minerals. The best way to obtain vitamins and minerals is through a healthful and varied diet. |  |
