The following vitamins are imperative for the body to function properly:

• vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision, skin, and skeletal tissue
• vitamin B1 (thiamin), which helps the body metabolize fats and produce energy
• vitamin B2 (riboflavin), which is an antioxidant and protects the body’s cells against free radicals
• vitamin B3 (niacin), which can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease
• vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), which is essential for hormone production, immune system health, and producing energy
• vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), which helps produce myelin, a protective layer around cells
• vitamin B7 (biotin), which is necessary for the metabolism as well as healthy skin, hair, nails, and cells
• vitamin B9 (folate), which is necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system
• vitamin B12 (cobalamin), which is essential for the production of healthy red blood cells and nerve cells
• vitamin C, which is essential for growth and repair in body tissue
• vitamin D, which aids in calcium absorption and allows for healthy bones and optimal immune function
• vitamin E, which protects against free radicals and can boost the immune system
• vitamin K, which can help the blood to clot and prevent excessive bleeding, and keeps your heart healthy and your bones strong
• choline, which is important for liver function, nerve function, and muscle movement

Many vitamins perform similar functions. For example, both vitamins A and C promote the health of the teeth and soft tissues. Many of the B vitamins help your metabolism function properly and help with red blood cell production.