What are vitamins?
Vitamins are nutrients the body needs in small amounts to work properly, grow and stay healthy. There are 13 essential vitamins, and most must come from food.
The 13 essential vitamins are A, C, D, E, K and eight B vitamins, including B12 and folate. Each has different jobs, such as helping the body make energy, build bones, heal wounds, keep the immune system working and produce red blood cells. Without enough of a vitamin, a deficiency disease can develop.
Vitamins are divided into two groups. Fat-soluble vitamins, A, D, E and K, are stored in the body's fat and liver, so too much of them can build up and become harmful. Water-soluble vitamins, C and the B vitamins, are not stored in large amounts, and extra is usually removed in urine.
Getting enough
Most people can get the vitamins they need from a varied diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, eggs, fish and meat. Some people may need supplements, such as vitamin D in winter, folic acid during pregnancy or B12 for those on a vegan diet. A doctor can advise on what is needed.
Did You Know?
The word vitamin comes from vitamine, coined by Polish biochemist Casimir Funk in 1912, combining vital and amine.
This answer is general information, not medical advice. For a personal health question, talk to a doctor.