What are vitamins?

Vitamins are essential nutrients required in small amounts to keep our body healthy, support immunity, and protect us from diseases. They are called protective nutrients because they help the body function properly and prevent deficiency diseases.

Different vitamins perform different roles in the body. Vitamin A helps maintain healthy eyes and vision. Vitamin C supports immunity and keeps gums healthy. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and maintain strong bones. Other vitamins also help in growth, energy use, and maintaining normal body processes.

Common sources of vitamins include fresh fruits, vegetables, green leafy vegetables, milk, eggs, and other nutritious foods. Eating a variety of foods helps the body receive different types of vitamins.

A lack of vitamins in the diet can cause deficiency diseases. For example, deficiency of Vitamin A may cause night blindness, lack of Vitamin C can cause scurvy, and deficiency of Vitamin D may lead to rickets.

Vitamins, along with carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, dietary fibre, and water, are important components of a balanced diet that support overall health and proper body functioning.