A class of micronutrients that regulate and support chemical reactions in the body.

A group of organic food substances found in animals and plants in small quantities. They must be supplied in diet or dietary supplement and are essential for normal metabolism.

A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Sources of vitamins are plant and animal food products and dietary supplements. Some vitamins are made in the human body from food products. Vitamins are either fat-soluble (can dissolve in fats and oils) or water-soluble (can dissolve in water). Excess fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body's fatty tissue, but excess water-soluble vitamins are removed in the urine. Examples are vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E.

Diverse group of organic nutrient substances required in trace amounts for normal metabolic function; many are enzyme cofactors or cofactor precursors.

Organic substances that are required in small amounts for maintenance and growth, but which cannot be manufactured by the human body.

Vitamins are substances that your body needs to grow and develop normally. There are 13 vitamins your body needs. They are Vitamin A; B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12 and folate); Vitamin C; Vitamin D; Vitamin E; Vitamin K. You can usually get all your vitamins from the foods you eat. Your body can also make vitamins D and K. People who eat a vegetarian diet may need to take a vitamin B12 supplement. Each vitamin has specific jobs. If you have low levels of certain vitamins, you may get health problems. For example, if you don't get enough vitamin C, you could become anemic. Some vitamins may help prevent medical problems. Vitamin A prevents night blindness. The best way to get enough vitamins is to eat a balanced diet with a variety of foods. In some cases, you may need to take vitamin supplements. It's a good idea to ask your health care provider first. High doses of some vitamins can cause problems.

Vitamins may be: Fat soluble (vitamins A, D, E, and K) or Water soluble (B vitamins and vitamin C).

Vitamin, any of several organic substances that are necessary in small quantities for normal health and growth in higher forms of animal life. Vitamins are distinct in several ways from other biologically important compounds such as proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Although these latter...