Vitamins, the catalysts of life

28 Jan Vitamins, the catalysts of life

Vitamins are organic molecules most of which are not produced by the human body and can only be obtained through our diet. Vitamins act as catalysts, namely they assist enzymatic reactions in our body so that it can work properly.

How do vitamins function in the human organism?

Vitamins possess diverse biochemical properties. While some like Vitamin A act as a regulator of cell and tissue growth and regeneration, others like Vitamin C and E function as potent antioxidants.

Many of the vitamins operate as cofactors for enzymes and many of the essential minerals are integral components of the hundreds of enzymes that function continuously in our cells. Therefore, vitamins and essential minerals must be taken in combination and in specific quantities, always prescribed by a specialist with the aim of therapeutic action.

Why do most doctors today recommend vitamin supplements?

Nowadays, as the enormous value of the presence of vitamins in the body and the consequences of their deficiency has been recognized, more and more doctors prescribe them to their patients.

The benefits of vitamins for the human body

They are essential for most human biological functions, the most important of which are:

• Regulation of metabolism through the production of energy from carbohydrates, fats and proteins
• Normal function of the immune system
• Absorption of nutrients
• Antioxidant action
• Bone strength and smooth skeletal development
• Maintaining the nervous system
• Cell growth and regeneration
• Anti-aging action

Inadequate intake of vitamins can result in:

• Increased vulnerability to various diseases
• Reduction of muscle mass
• Fatigue and weakness
• Nervousness, mental disorders and depression
• Hair loss
• Reduced stamina and performance
• Chronic diseases

Which Vitamins are suitable for me?

Every organism is unique in how it manages the various molecules that comprise its biochemistry. Knowing that a lack of vitamins can cause long-term morbidity which manifests itself in the form of metabolic and chronic diseases, it is vital to take the right amounts of vitamins which are either not received through daily diet or are taken in small quantities due to the poor quality of the food.

The correct intake of vitamins

In addition to usual blood tests that measure vitamin D, folic acid, vitamin C, etc. there are specialized molecular-level diagnostic tests that identify possible deficiencies of micronutrients of the human organism.

These tests analyze whether the various cellular pathways are performing properly. In that manner, they allow the physicians to gain a deep understanding of the cells’ status and furthermore find out which micronutrients are in deficiency. Then, the physicians can safely prescribe the correct combination and dosages of vitamins required and in a next level prevent the onset of chronic diseases due to vitamin deficiency.

Dr. Nikoleta Koini, M.D.

Doctor of Functional, Preventive, Anti-ageing and Restorative Medicine.
Diplomate and Board Certified in Anti-aging, Preventive, Functional and Regenerative Medicine from A4M (American Academy in Antiaging Medicine).

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