NOBEL laureate Albert V. Szent-Gyorgyi once described energy as the '"currency'" of life. Yes, money might make the world go round, but it's energy that keeps the body hopping to the tune of life.

Make no mistake about it, a life without energy is, technically, death. Even at the cellular level, energy is needed to fight off infections and break down toxins in the body. The body also needs energy to produce hormones, enzymes and other molecules that are essential for survival.

Most of us need to work to earn money, but all of us need to eat to get the energy we need to function every day. Energy is basically obtained from the carbohydrate, protein and fat we consume. The body converts or metabolises energy from these dietary sources through a complex process. Excess energy is converted into adipose tissue (fat) and is stored for later use. A small amount of carbohydrate is stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen for quick release when needed.

How much energy a person needs depends on his level of physical activity, gender, age and body size. Intake also varies according to different circumstances, such as pregnancy, recovery from cancer or even surgery. However, ALL of us need energy so we can go about our lives, be it as full-time parents, office workers, sportsmen or students. Even a couch potato needs energy.

The energy equation is one that has several aspects. Obviously, nutrition is one vital aspect of the equation. Nutrition here is not limited to carbohydrates, protein, and fat, but also vitamins and minerals. Vitamins and minerals in the right quantities are crucial to overall health and energy levels.

Studies have indicated that there is an inter-relationship between micronutrients, energy metabolism and an individual's well-being. The micronutrients in question here include the B group of vitamins, vitamin C as well as iron, magnesium and potassium.

In essence, a well balanced diet should give you sufficient quantities of these. Unfortunately, many people often fail to eat healthily due to poor food choices, improper eating habits such as skipping meals, and following fad diets. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are also culprits.

This is where a good health supplement can make a difference.

The B vitamins, like vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12, support energy metabolism. They help in the release of energy from foods. Except for vitamin B12, the others cannot be stored in the body and need to be replenished daily. So getting adequate quantities daily is very important to keep your metabolic process functioning properly.

Specifically, vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is directly linked to carbohydrates and metabolic rate. A daily intake of 0.9-1.5mg is recommended for healthy men and 0.8-1.1my for healthy women.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is also needed for the utilisation of energy from food. It also aids in the utilisation of protein, fat and carbohydrate for energy. Daily intake of 1.1-1.7mg is recommended.

Iron is needed for the formation of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood to tissues. If you are constantly fatigued, lack of iron could be the reason. Severe lack of iron can lead to anaemia.

Magnesium and potassium are required to break down glucose to produce energy in our bodies. When magnesium is low, our body produces more lactic acid, which makes us tired. In fact, magnesium is a cofactor in over 300 enzyme reactions, particularly those involving metabolism of food components. Potassium is also necessary to convert sugar in the blood into energy.

Vitamin C is needed as it increases iron absorption; which means it needs to work in tandem with iron for the formation of haemoglobin.

Research has shown that vitamin and mineral supplements can alleviate the risk of inadequate micronutrient intake, especially among young adults - often women who lead busy lifestyles or are physically active and diet often. However, nutrient deficiencies can only be addressed if the supplements are taken for an adequate period of time.

There are probably times when we all want to feel a little more energetic to get us through the day. Well, besides looking at your caloric intake, it would also be wise to look at the quantities of vitamins and mineral in your diet. -The Star/ANN