Vitamins and minerals are needed in very small quantities for the body. Both are required for vital functions in the body, which include biochemical reactions for energy production, hemoglobin synthesis, bone health, immune function, reactions and structural properties for the synthesis and repair of muscle tissue, and the protection against oxidation processes in the body. Each vitamin and many minerals have been described in separate entries; however, some research is available regarding the effects of multivitamin-multimineral supplements on nutritional status and the performance of athletes.