ALERT

For the latest coronavirus care instructions and resources, please call our COVID-19 hotline at 208-381-9500. Find additional information and resources here and learn more about how we’re working to keep you healthy and safe.
toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Vitamins

Top of the page

Vitamins

Vitamins are certain chemicals the body needs in small amounts to function properly. They work in a variety of ways, mostly as "helpers." For example, many of the B vitamins help the body use protein, carbohydrate, and fats.

Vitamins are divided into two categories:

  • Water-soluble vitamins include all the B vitamins and vitamin C. Water-soluble vitamins travel freely through the body, and the part that the body doesn't use passes through the kidneys and leaves the body as urine or stool. The body needs water-soluble vitamins in frequent, small doses. And they are unlikely to reach toxic levels.
  • Fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E, and K. These are stored in the body's cells and are not passed out of the body as easily as water-soluble vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins can reach toxic levels if a person gets more than he or she needs.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2015 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Picture Your Health.

How do you define health? Physical? Mental? Social? Health goes beyond medical care. It's how we take care of ourselves, how we interact with our communities, how we take care of each other.

Let St. Luke's support your health, however you define it.

Quick Links
Connect with Us
Contact Us In Twin Falls (208) 814-1000