Vitamins differ from minerals in that vitamins are compounds, and not elements. Vitamins do not help form bodily structures and thus are needed strictly in small quantities-sometimes milligram quantities per day, but often microgram quantities.

There are 13 vitamins that the body must have to function properly. Of these, eight are B vitamins that facilitate chemical reactions by acting as coenzymes or cofactors or assist enzymes.

It is better not to take these vitamins or supplements in large quantities. It is advisable to take them in limited quantities only.