Groups of nutrients that the human body needs in order to remain healthy and function normally.

Vitamins are organic substances, small amounts of which are needed for certain biochemical reactions in the human body. Minerals are inorganic compounds also needed for a variety of bodily functions.

Vitamins

Because the human body does not synthesize vitamins (at least not in the quantities needed), they must be obtained either through food or through nutritional supplements. Vitamins help the body use fats, proteins, minerals, and carbohydrates. They perform numerous functions, including fighting infections, maintaining mental alertness, helping with blood clotting, forming red blood cells, and promoting good vision. Although medical experts recommend obtaining one's necessary allowance of vitamins by eating a balanced diet, nutritional supplements are very popular among Americans, many of whom fear that their regular diets do not provide them with the nutrients they need...