About Vitamins
Vitamins are substances your body needs to grow and develop normally. There are 13 vitamins your body needs. These are:
- Vitamin A
- B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folic acid)
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
You can usually get all vitamins from the food you eat. Your body can make vitamin D under the influence of sunlight; vitamin K is partly produced by gut bacteria. People who eat a vegan or vegetarian diet may need a vitamin B12 supplement. Each vitamin has specific functions. If you have low levels of certain vitamins, health problems can arise. A balanced diet helps you get enough vitamins; sometimes a supplement may be appropriate, for example a multivitamin. It is a good idea to consult a doctor or dietitian first, as high doses of some vitamins can cause problems, as indicated by the RIVM and EFSA. Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal vision*.
*Authorised health claim under Regulation (EU) 432/2012, with a daily intake of at least 15% of the reference intake.