Essential to the proper functioning of the human body, vitamins
are accountable for maintaining a normal metabolism as well as
proper cellular growth and development. Vitamins are divided
into two categories: fat-soluble and water-soluble. Vitamins A,
D, E, and K are the four fat-soluble vitamins with the others
falling into the water-soluble category. If a vitamin is fat
soluble, that means it can be stored in fat and used at a later
date. Water-soluble vitamins must be used immediately (excess is
expelled via urine). Each vitamin serves a specific purpose
within the human body. A deficiency in vitamins may lead to
various health issues while possibly increasing your risk for
conditions like heart disease, various cancers, and osteoporosis
(weak bone density).