Vitamins and minerals are required in very small amounts but are essential for healthy growth and development, and general well-being.
Vitamins occur naturally in certain foods but are not synthesized by humans and therefore it is essential to include it in the diet. Vitamins are either water soluble or fat soluble. Minerals are inorganic substances available in the soil and water. They are taken up by plants and are absorbed by humans from their diet.
Inadequate intake of any particular vitamin or mineral in the diet causes specific vitamin and mineral deficiency. Vitamin and mineral supplements (either alone or in combination) are taken to treat the deficiency.