Vitaminai

Vitaminai are organic micronutrients essential for human health in small amounts. They must be obtained from the diet or supplements because the body does not synthesize them in sufficient quantities. Vitaminai support metabolism, immune function, vision, blood formation, and tissue maintenance, often acting as cofactors in enzymatic reactions or as antioxidants.

Vitaminai are commonly divided into fat-soluble and water-soluble groups. Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K are stored in the liver and fatty tissues and can accumulate if taken in excess. Water-soluble vitamins, including the B-complex and vitamin C, are generally not stored in large amounts and are excreted in urine, requiring regular intake.

Most vitaminai come from a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, eggs, meat, and fortified foods. They play diverse roles: some serve as coenzymes in energy production and DNA synthesis; others act as antioxidants or support vision, bone health, anemia prevention, and immune defense.

Deficiencies cause specific health problems, such as scurvy from vitamin C deficiency, rickets or osteomalacia from inadequate vitamin D, night blindness from vitamin A deficiency, and pernicious anemia from insufficient vitamin B12. Excess intake of fat-soluble vitamins can lead to toxicity; high doses of certain water-soluble vitamins can also cause adverse effects or interact with medicines.

Recommended intakes vary by age, sex, and life stage. A well-balanced diet generally meets needs for most people. Some groups—pregnant people, older adults, people with restrictive diets or absorption disorders—may require supplements, but supplementation should be guided by professional advice to avoid excess.