Vitamin is an organic compound essential for maintaining the health of human beings. It is an important element for the growth and functioning of the body. The lack of vitamins would cause deficiency diseases. For instance, the lack of vitamin C will cause scurvy.

In general, our body requires 13 vitamins, including vitamins A, C, D, E, K and the B vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12 and folate). These vitamins can be absorbed from our diet while vegetarian may need vitamin B12 supplement. Also, vitamins D and K can be produced by our body.

Keeping a balanced and healthy diet is the best way to ensure sufficient intake of vitamins. The following are some of the occasions that you may require extra vitamins:

- Vegetarian
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding
- High risk of getting osteoporosis

If you are worried about your health and would like to take vitamin supplements, remember to ask for your doctorˇ¦s advice beforehand. Excessive intake of vitamins is harmful to your health. For example, taking too much Vitamin B6 may lead to the damage of nerve in arms and legs; overdose of vitamin A may cause liver problems, dizziness, vomiting, headache, nausea, birth defects and clumsiness.