Why Do We Need Vitamins? 
 
By Dr. Wayne C. Diamond N.D.
 
Vitamins are complex molecules that we need to carry out most of the functions in our bodies.  Many opponents of natural healing and vitamin therapy say we should get all the vitamins and nutritional benefits needed from our food. 
 
About hundred years ago, when pollution in its many forms and various chemical toxins were not present, we could get all that we needed nutritionally from our food.  But as the twentieth century brought thousands of pollutant forms into our environment, nutritional science dramatically changed.  No longer was good food pure enough to supply what our bodies needed to live.  The reason for this phenomenon is both simple and complex. 
 
Quite simply, the human body cannot fully absorb nutrients that are continually intermingled with the vast amount of pollutants, toxins and pesticides that we face on a daily basis.  

 Some of the most problematic of these pollutants are the hydrocarbons emitted from buses, automobiles and truck engines.  There is a growing body of scientific data that has proven these engine emissions cause acute allergies in chemically hyper-sensitive people. In those of us who have normal sensitivity, they can cause a great deal of difficulty in their ability to break down high in protein foods or some carbohydrates, as well as foods high in mineral content such as calcium, iron or zinc.  These cannot be absorbed in human tissue when mixed with hydro-carbons. 
 
Almost all food has some water content.  This water, when mixed with digestive enzymes allow for proper digestion.  When hydrocarbons mix with nutritional fluids, a combative biochemical reaction occurs and much of the nutrients become un-absorbable by the body.  They are propelled into the elimination systems.  The body then starves for these nutrients. 
 
For these reasons, along with other complex issues, a regime of the right vitamin supplements in the right amounts will provide our bodies with what is essential to survive and stay healthy