Vitamins are essential nutrients that the body needs to grow, function properly, and resist infections:
They are organic substances made by plants or animals.
There are 13 essential vitamins, including vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, as well as the B vitamins.
Each vitamin has a different job in the body, such as helping your body get energy from food, keeping your nerves healthy, or helping your blood clot when you get a cut.
You can get vitamins from the foods you eat, such as eggs, leafy green vegetables, and whole grains. You can also take vitamin supplements if your diet is lacking.
Vitamins are categorized as either fat-soluble or water-soluble:
Fat-soluble vitamins: Vitamins A, D, E, and K are stored in the body’s liver, fatty tissue, and muscles.
Water-soluble vitamins: Vitamins C and the B vitamins are not stored in the body. Your body excretes any excess water-soluble vitamins through urine.
The term “vitamin” was coined in 1912 by biochemist Casimir Funk, who derived the word from “vita” meaning life and “amine” referring to a nitrogenous substance essential for life.
Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/definitions/vitaminsdefinitions.html
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002399.htm
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/vitamins-and-supplements/vitamins-and-minerals-older-adults
https://www.healthline.com/health/nutrition/what-are-vitamins
https://www.helpguide.org/wellness/nutrition/vitamins-and-minerals
https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/vitamins/
