Vitamins and minerals

As well as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, a healthy diet should also contain sufficient micronutrients – that is, vitamins and minerals.

Consuming a varied and balanced diet can remove the need for vitamin and mineral supplements. Anyone who is taking supplements containing large amounts of vitamins or minerals and/or need further advice, should speak to their doctor or dietician.

• Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat-soluble, and remain in the body for weeks before being depleted. They tend to be found in milk and dairy foods.
• Vitamins B (complex) and C are water-soluble and need to be replenished daily. B vitamins are found in bread and cereals, and vitamin C is mostly found in citrus fruit.
• Minerals are found in many foods, often in tiny (trace) amounts, and include calcium, chloride, chromium, fluoride, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium, sulphur, and zinc.