Vitamins & Minerals (A-Z)

Lets look at the role of each vitamin and mineral, how much you need, the main functions within the body, some signs and symptoms of deficiency, and which foods are good sources.

What are Vitamins?

Vitamins are complex substances which are needed in tiny amounts and they are vital to keep your body healthy. They cannot be made in the body and therefore need to be obtained via your diet. They are often called essential micronutrients. There are two main groups of vitamins

Fat soluble, which are found in fatty foods such as vitamin A and D in butter. These can be stored in the body.

Water-soluble, which are find in foods that contain amounts of water such as fruit and vegetables. These cannot be stored in the body so a regular intake is required.

Vitamin and Mineral Database

Vitamin A

Main functions

Vitamin A is necessary for the function of light-sensitive nerve cells (photoreceptors) in the eye’s retina.Therefore Vitamin A is essential normal and night vision.  It also helps keep the skin and the lining of the lungs, intestine, and urinary tract healthy and is essential for immune function, carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, are pigments in vegetables that give them their yellow, orange or red color.