1. Vitamins and Minerals

2. Vitamins Organic molecules that the body needs in very small amounts are called vitamins. Most vitamins are needed by the body to help perform important chemical reactions. Most vitamins must be obtained from food. However, the bacteria that live in the large intestine can synthesize vitamin K and vitamin B 12.

3. Vitamins There are two types of vitamins: fat-soluble and water-soluble. The fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K can be stored in the fatty tissues of the body. The body can build up small deposits of these vitamins for future use.

4. Vitamins The water-soluble vitamins, which include vitamin C and the B vitamins, dissolve in water and cannot be stored in the body. The tables on the following two slides list the food sources and functions of 14 essential vitamins.

5. 14 Essential Vitamins

7. Minerals Inorganic nutrients that the body needs, usually in small amounts, are called minerals. A constant supply of minerals in the diet is needed to replace those lost in sweat, urine, and digestive wastes.

8. Minerals – Sources & Functions

9. Nutrition – Balanced Diet A balanced diet provides nutrients in adequate amounts and enough energy for a person to maintain a healthful weight.