However, simply, vitamins are a group of chemically unrelated organic nutrients that are essential, in very small amounts, for healthy growth, development and maintenance of normal body function in animals and man. The term was first used by a Polish chemist, Casimer Funk in 1911. Vitamins must be obtained through diet as they are not synthesised in the body, or are synthesised in adequate amounts. They are derived from living material, such as plants and animals. This is distinct from minerals which come from the soil.
Vitamins are essential requirements in many life-building processes.
Vitamins are divided into two groups, according to whether they are soluble in water or fat. Although they do little harm generally, their unnecessary use is wasteful. It is important to remember that vitamins, although essential, do not supply energy. Briefly, very briefly, that outlines the role of vitamins as they help maintain normal physiological body function in animals and man. Administration of vitamins Vitamins are versatile things and may be administered in several ways.