Vitamins are organic molecules that cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by humans and therefore must be obtained through diet. Nine vitamins (folic acid, cobalamin, ascorbic acid, pyridoxine, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, biotin and pantothenic acid) are classified as water-soluble. When taken in excess of the body’s needs, they are easily excreted in the urine and therefore must be taken continuously through the diet. Toxicity is rare. However, deficiencies can develop rapidly.
Vitamins are necessary for the performance of certain cellular functions. For example, many water-soluble vitamins function as coenzymes in metabolic pathways related to energy production and hematopoiesis. Since these vitamins play a central role in energy metabolism, their deficiencies primarily cause problems in rapidly developing tissues. Typical symptoms are dermatitis, glossitis (the tongue is swollen and red), cheilitis in the corners of the lips and diarrhea. The nervous system of patients is also affected due to energy problems. Patients often experience peripheral neuropathy, depression, mental confusion, and loss of motor coordination.
Minerals are inorganic structures (elements) that the body needs in small amounts. It has functions in many processes such as the formation of bone and tooth structure, fluid balance, nerve conduction, muscle contraction, signaling and catalysis. Various minerals are essential cofactors of enzymes. Minerals are micronutrients needed at mg or μg levels. Microminerals are needed at levels between 1 and 100 mg/day. Ultra trace minerals are needed in amounts below 1 mg per day. Copper, iron, manganese and zinc are microminerals. Ultratrace minerals include iodine, selenium and molybdenum. In this section, detailed information was given about the biochemical structures of water-soluble vitamins, microminerals and ultra-trace elements, their important functions in the body, and the pathological conditions seen in their deficiency and excess.