Pronunciation: [vˈɪtəmɪnz] (IPA) 
The spelling of "vitamines" with an "e" is an outdated variation of the word "vitamins" which is now the standard spelling of the word. The pronunciation of "vitamins" is /ˈvɪtəmɪnz/ with the stress on the second syllable. The word refers to organic compounds that are essential for normal growth and nutrition in humans and animals. It's vital to ensure that one's diet contains an adequate amount of vitamins to maintain good health.
Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for the proper functioning of various physiological processes in the human body. These vital nutrients cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by the body and must be obtained through dietary sources or supplements. Vitamins are generally classified into two categories: fat-soluble and water-soluble.
Fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, are stored in the fatty tissues of the body and can be stored for longer periods. They require the presence of fats and oils in the diet for absorption and are crucial for maintaining healthy eyesight, bone health, immune function, and blood clotting capabilities.
Water-soluble vitamins, which include the B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12) and vitamin C, dissolve in water and are easily absorbed by the body. These vitamins are not stored to a large extent and need to be replenished regularly through diet. They play a crucial role in energy production, nerve function, cell metabolism, red blood cell formation, collagen synthesis, and overall immunity.
Deficiencies of essential vitamins can lead to various health problems, such as weakened immunity, impaired vision, decreased cognitive function, anemia, and even life-threatening conditions if left untreated. Hence, maintaining a balanced diet with a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products, and meats can provide an adequate supply of vitamins to support the body's requirements. Additionally, vitamin supplements are available to address specific deficiencies or to meet increased nutritional needs.
The word "vitamines" is derived from the Latin word "vita", meaning "life". The term was coined in 1912 by Polish biochemist Casimir Funk, who isolated a substance that was essential for maintaining life. He initially called this substance "vitamine" because he believed it was necessary for life. Funk later discovered that there were multiple types of these substances, which is why the term was pluralized to "vitamines". Over time, the "e" was dropped, and the word is now known as "vitamins" in English.
