Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat-soluble, meaning that they dissolve in fat and are carried by fat molecules throughout the body. If we had no fat in our diets, we would be unable to reap the benefits of these vitamins. These vitamins also can be stored in body fat, so taking supplements of fat-soluble vitamins-especially vitamin A or vitamin D-is risky unless prescribed by a doctor, since the stored excess can build up to dangerous levels.

Water-Soluble Vitamins

The B-vitamins and vitamin C are water-soluble, which means that they dissolve in water and are carried throughout the body in the bloodstream. These vitamins are not stored in the body. After the body uses what it needs, any excess is excreted in urine.

Minerals

Like vitamins, minerals are essential nutrients required to help the body function properly.