1. Vitamins and Minerals: A Brief Review

2. Calcium Function – build strong bones and teeth Deficiency - Osteoporosis

3. Potassium Function: Nerve and muscle communication

4. Iron Function: makes hemoglobin (in red blood cells) Deficiency: anemia Excess: constipation

5. Sodium Function – fluid balance Excess: high blood pressure

6. Fluoride Function: healthy teeth Sources: processed water, toothpaste Excess: tooth decay Deficiency: tooth decay

7. Vitamin D Function: absorption of calcium; strong bones Deficiency: Rickets

8. Vitamin K Function: blood clotting Deficiency: hemorrhage

9. Folate (folic acid) Function: red blood cell development; spinal cord development Deficiency: folate-deficiency anemia; neural tube defects during pregnancy

10. Vitamin C Function: Growth and repair of tissues; fighting infection Deficiency: Scurvy

11. How to Preserve Vitamins and Minerals in Your Food Do not soak fruits and veggies in water. Eat the skin of fruits and veggies! Cut up fresh foods just before you eat it. Steam, don’t boil.