Vitamins in human nutrition: Importance, deficiency and prevention

Vitamins are needed by the human body in small amounts, but they are important for many normal body functions. They help the body use nutrients, support growth, maintain immunity, form blood cells and keep organs and tissues working properly. There are 13 commonly recognized essential vitamins. They are divided into fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) and water-soluble vitamins (the B-group vitamins and vitamin C). A lack of vitamins can happen because of poor food choices, increased requirements, problems with absorption, some diseases, certain medicines or limited access to nutritious food. Different deficiencies can lead to problems such as night blindness, rickets, anemia, nerve problems and scurvy. The main way to prevent deficiency is to eat a varied diet. In some situations, fortified foods or supplements are also needed. At the same time, taking very large amounts of supplements is not always safe. This article explains the main vitamins, their sources, functions, deficiency disorders and simple ways of prevention.