They are needed for normal metabolism, growth and well being. Each vitamin also has its own specific functions. Vitamins are not made in the body so they must be obtained from our diets.
Regular intake is therefore important.
Minerals are also required in small quantities and are required for growth and well being. Like vitamins, each mineral has specific functions, and minerals are also not made in the body. Minerals are absorbed from the earth by plants and then enter our bodies through food. There are 18 elements classed as minerals or trace elements that are recognised to have some role in metabolism. RDA is the quantity of a nutrient that is needed regularly to keep most people fit and healthy.