Vitamins are nutrients—organic substances essential for life. They are indispensable for the normal functioning of our bodies. With few exceptions, vitamins cannot be produced or synthesized by the body. Along with other nutrients, such as minerals, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and water, they enable children to move, think, learn, and grow. Vitamins occur naturally in very small amounts in all foods. They must be obtained from these foods or supplements, for example in the form of tablets, capsules, liquids, topical application, or injections.
Each vitamin has a unique function.
No single vitamin can replace another or perform the role of any other nutrient.
The body's growth, maintenance, and regulation require about 50 different nutrients.
It is impossible to sustain life without all of these essential vitamins.