Vitamins are naturally present in the organic food substances found in plants and animals. The human body is not able to produce these vitamins and hence have to be taken naturally with a meal or artificially through medicines. There is a minimum amount of vitamins and minerals that are required by the body each day to work normally and remain healthy. The lacking of any kind of vitamin results in the deficiency of the particular type of vitamin. The deficiency is commonly caused due to the intake of improper or unhealthy food. In such cases doctors prescribe vitamin supplements in form of tablets that mainly induce vitamins.

The doctors usually prescribe the vitamins that are not present in our diet or those which are very essential for our body. The vitamins are Fat-soluble and water soluble. The vitamins, such as A, D, E and K are fat soluble and get stored in body fat. The vitamins B and C are water soluble and are not stored in the body which makes it necessary to be taken regularly. Now let us get to know the functions of vitamins.

Vitamin A is fat-soluble and vital for bones, teeth, mucous membranes, skin and eyes to be healthy and is found in eggs, milk and milk products, and in all green vegetables. Deficiency of vitamin A can result in improper bone growth, dry skin and blindness. Excess vitamin A can damage liver and kidney along with hair loss and joint pain.

The B Vitamins are needed for producing energy. The lack of vitamin B results in hindered body resistance. The various kinds of B vitamins are B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12. Vitamin B12 is required for the formation red blood cells and its proper functioning. The shortages of this vitamin cause neurological disorders.

Vitamin C has antioxidant properties and hence important for the absorption of iron. It is found in green salads, tomatoes and citrus fruits. Excess consumption of vitamin C may cause formation of kidney stones. And the lack of vitamin C can cause weight loss, loss of appetite, damaged skin and dental problems.

Vitamin D is a fat- soluble vitamin produced by the skin when exposed to sunlight. The lack of vitamin D causes bone softening referred to as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Milk products and eggs are the best sources. Excess vitamin D can cause deafness, formation of kidney stones, hypertension and high levels of cholesterol.

Vitamins E act as an antioxidant agent. It also helps in the formation of red blood cells and muscle tissues. It also reduces stress and damaging of muscles during exercise. The main sources of this vitamin are found to be Cereals, green leafy vegetables, seeds and bread.
Vitamin K is vital fat-soluble vitamin helpful in clotting of blood. It is found mainly in potatoes, green leafy vegetables and peas. The deficiency of this causes profuse bleeding and excessive intake may lead to jaundice and anemia.

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