Definition of vitaminCategorized under "General"
Definition as written by Magpye:
An organic compound which occurs in very small amounts in most vegetable matter without which normal functions may not proceed.
There are many different ones and they were originally distinguished by letters of the alphabet, vitamin A, B, C, etc. Often referred to by a name indicating their chemical composition, eg. panthothenic acid, riboflavin, cyanocabalamine, etc.
Absence of any one in the diet produces a specific syndrome. Continued complete absence can result in death. Some animals appear to be able to manufacture their own requirements of certain vitamins.
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