Differentiate between fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins.
Answer
Vitamins are carbon-containing nutrients essential to regulate the chemical processes in the body. The FDA has recommended daily allowances for vitamins and minerals. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can lead to illness. Fat-soluble vitamins are not excreted from the body. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored when they are currently not in use. They can build up to toxic levels if more than the recommended intake is ingested. Vitamins D, E, K, and A are fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamin D plays a key role in the healthy development of bone and the absorption of calcium and phosphorous in the body. Vitamin E has a role in the formation of red blood cells, muscles, and the immune system. Vitamin K is important in clotting processes, and bleeding abnormalities may occur without it. Vitamin A is required for skin, teeth, bone, and soft tissue. It also is essential for vision, reproductive health, and immune system health.
Water-soluble vitamins are not stored but are excreted by the body in urine. These vitamins must be ingested daily. They are Vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid), B 12 (cobalamin), and Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is important for nervous system function and the conversion of sugar into energy. B2 (riboflavin) is important for the conversion of food into energy, growth and development, and red cell formation. B3 (niacin) is important for cholesterol production, conversion of food into energy, digestion, and nervous system function. B5 (pantothenic acid) is important for the conversion of food into energy, fat metabolism, hormone production, nervous system function, and red blood cell formation. B6 (pyridoxine) is important for the immune and nervous system, (protein, carbohydrate, and fat metabolism), and red blood cell formation. B7 (biotin) is important for energy storage, and protein, carbohydrate, and fat metabolism. B9 (folic acid) is important for birth defect prevention, protein metabolism, and red blood cell formation. B12 (cobalamin) is important for the conversion of food into energy, nervous system function, and red blood cell formation. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is important for collagen and connective tissue, immune function, wound healing, and acts as an antioxidant.