What are vitamins, and why are they important?

What are Vitamins?

• Vitamins are organic compounds (carbon-based substances) that our body needs in small amounts to stay healthy.
• They are not made enough by our body, so we usually get them from food.
• Unlike carbohydrates, proteins, or fats, they don’t give energy, but they are essential for proper body functions.

Why Are Vitamins Important?

1. Help Enzymes Work
   • Many vitamins act as coenzymes (helpers for enzymes) so biochemical reactions can happen smoothly.
   • Example: Vitamin B complex helps in energy production.
2. Boost Immunity
   • Vitamins like Vitamin C and D help the body fight infections.
3. Growth and Development
   • Vitamin A supports growth, skin health, and good vision.
   • Vitamin D helps bones grow strong.
4. Prevent Deficiency Diseases
   • Lack of vitamins causes diseases:
     • Vitamin D deficiency → Rickets (weak bones)
     • Vitamin C deficiency → Scurvy (bleeding gums)
     • Vitamin A deficiency → Night blindness
5. Overall Health
   • They keep skin, nerves, blood, and organs working properly.

Types of Vitamins

1. Fat-Soluble Vitamins (stored in fat and liver)
   • A, D, E, K
   • Taken with fatty foods, stored for later use.
2. Water-Soluble Vitamins (not stored, need daily)
   • B-complex and C
   • Excess is removed in urine.

In short:
Vitamins are essential nutrients needed in small amounts for good health.
They don’t give energy, but they help enzymes, boost immunity, support growth, and prevent deficiency diseases.