are essential micronutrients that play crucial roles in our bodies. They act as coenzymes, regulate gene expression, and maintain tissue integrity. From supporting to protecting against oxidative stress, are vital for overall health and well-being.

Understanding vitamin functions helps prevent deficiencies and related diseases. Adequate intake through diet or supplements is key for different life stages and health conditions. By knowing vitamin roles, we can make informed choices to support our nutritional needs and prevent health issues.

Essential Roles and Functions of Vitamins

Roles of vitamins in nutrition

Top images from around the web for Roles of vitamins in nutrition
Top images from around the web for Roles of vitamins in nutrition
  • Vitamins are organic compounds required in small amounts for normal growth, development, and metabolic processes
    • Classified as either water-soluble (B-complex vitamins and ) or fat-soluble (vitamins A, D, E, and K)
    • Vitamins are considered micronutrients due to the small quantities required by the body
  • Act as coenzymes or cofactors in enzymatic reactions enabling crucial metabolic processes
    • (vitamin B1) serves as a cofactor for enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism (glucose )
    • (vitamin B2) is a precursor for and , which are involved in electron transport and energy production (cellular respiration)
    • (vitamin B3) is a component of and , which are involved in redox reactions (catabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins)
    • (vitamin B6) acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in amino acid metabolism (transamination and decarboxylation)
    • (vitamin B12) functions as a cofactor for enzymes involved in DNA synthesis and fatty acid metabolism (myelin formation)
    • is a cofactor for enzymes involved in and neurotransmitter production (dopamine and serotonin synthesis)
    • is a component of visual pigments () and is involved in gene expression (cell differentiation and growth)
    • is involved in calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and bone metabolism (mineralization and remodeling)
    • is an that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage (prevents lipid peroxidation)
    • serves as a cofactor for enzymes involved in blood clotting (activation of clotting factors) and bone metabolism (osteocalcin activation)
  • Regulate gene expression and cell differentiation facilitating proper development and maintenance of tissues
    • and D receptors act as transcription factors to regulate gene expression (retinoic acid and response elements)
  • Maintain integrity of tissues and organs ensuring proper structure and function
    • Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, which is important for connective tissue, skin, and blood vessels (prevents )
    • Vitamin A is necessary for maintaining the integrity of epithelial tissues (prevents and )
  • Support immune function protecting against infections and diseases
    • Vitamins A, C, and E have antioxidant properties that protect immune cells from oxidative damage (enhance phagocytosis and antibody production)
    • Vitamin D modulates immune response by regulating T-cell activation and cytokine production (enhances innate immunity and reduces autoimmunity)

Vitamins for disease prevention

  • Antioxidant vitamins (A, C, and E) protect against oxidative stress and inflammation reducing the risk of chronic diseases
    • Cardiovascular disease (atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction)
    • Cancer (breast, prostate, and colon cancer)
    • Neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease)
  • Vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased risk of bone disorders
    • (reduced bone mineral density and increased fracture risk)
    • (softening and weakening of bones in children)
    • Adequate vitamin D intake and sun exposure can help prevent these conditions
  • B-vitamins (, B6, and B12) are essential for metabolism reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and
    • Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis and thrombosis
    • Adequate intake of these vitamins can help reduce homocysteine levels and prevent associated conditions ( and )
  • Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy vision and preventing eye disorders
    • Night blindness (impaired dark adaptation)
    • Xerophthalmia (dry eyes and corneal ulceration)
  • is essential for blood clotting and bone health preventing hemorrhagic diseases and
    • Deficiency can lead to hemorrhagic disease of the newborn (prolonged bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage)
    • Adequate vitamin K intake can reduce the risk of osteoporosis in adults
  • Vitamin C promotes wound healing and supports the immune system preventing infections and scurvy
    • Deficiency can lead to scurvy, characterized by impaired collagen synthesis and connective tissue weakness (bleeding gums and joint pain)

Vitamin deficiency risks and strategies

  • Populations at higher risk for vitamin deficiencies include
    • Pregnant and lactating women due to increased nutrient demands for fetal development and milk production
    • Infants and children due to rapid growth and development requiring adequate vitamin intake
    • Elderly due to reduced , decreased dietary intake, and increased medication use impacting vitamin status
    • Vegans and vegetarians may have limited intake of certain vitamins (B12 and D)
    • Individuals with disorders (celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease) have impaired vitamin absorption
    • Individuals with alcohol use disorder have impaired absorption and increased nutrient excretion
  • Strategies to improve vitamin intake and status
    1. Encourage a balanced diet with a variety of nutrient-dense foods
      • Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and fortified dairy products provide a wide range of vitamins
    2. Recommend vitamin supplements for at-risk populations or those with identified deficiencies
      • Prenatal vitamins for pregnant women to ensure adequate fetal development
      • Vitamin D supplements for breastfed infants and individuals with limited sun exposure to prevent deficiency
      • Vitamin B12 supplements for vegans and vegetarians to compensate for lack of dietary sources
    3. Fortify staple foods with essential vitamins to increase population-wide intake
      • Iodized salt to prevent iodine deficiency disorders
      • Vitamin D-fortified milk to improve bone health
      • -fortified grains to reduce neural tube defects
    4. Implement nutrition education programs to promote awareness of vitamin-rich foods and the importance of a balanced diet
    5. Screen high-risk populations for vitamin deficiencies and provide targeted interventions
      • Vitamin A supplementation for children in developing countries to prevent xerophthalmia and reduce mortality

Vitamin Intake and Safety

  • Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) provides guidance for adequate vitamin intake to meet the needs of most healthy individuals
  • of vitamins can vary depending on factors such as , cooking methods, and individual digestive health
  • establishes the maximum daily intake unlikely to cause adverse health effects
  • can occur when vitamin intake is consistently below recommended levels, leading to specific health problems
    • Scurvy (vitamin C deficiency)
    • Beriberi (thiamin deficiency)
    • Pellagra (niacin deficiency)

Key Terms to Review (85)

Absorption: Absorption is the process by which nutrients from digested food are taken up into the bloodstream through the intestinal wall. It is crucial for delivering essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to various body tissues.
Anencephaly: Anencephaly is a serious and rare congenital condition in which a baby is born without parts of the brain and skull. It is a type of neural tube defect that occurs during early fetal development when the upper part of the neural tube fails to close completely.
Angiogenesis: Angiogenesis is the process through which new blood vessels form from pre-existing vessels. It plays a critical role in growth, development, and wound healing.
Antioxidant: Antioxidants are compounds that inhibit oxidation, a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals leading to cell damage. They play a crucial role in protecting the body from oxidative stress.
Antioxidant Activity: Antioxidant activity refers to the ability of certain compounds, primarily found in foods and supplements, to neutralize and prevent the harmful effects of free radicals and oxidative stress within the body. These antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining cellular health and preventing the development of various chronic diseases.
Ascorbic acid: Ascorbic acid, also known as Vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. It is involved in many body functions, including collagen formation, iron absorption, immune system functioning, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
Ascorbic Acid: Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within the human body. It is a water-soluble vitamin that must be obtained through dietary sources or supplementation.
B vitamins: B vitamins are a group of water-soluble vitamins that play critical roles in cell metabolism and energy production. They are essential for maintaining optimal health, particularly in supporting brain function and red blood cell formation.
Beta-carotene: Beta-carotene is a red-orange pigment found in plants and fruits, especially carrots and colorful vegetables. It is a precursor to vitamin A (retinol) and has antioxidant properties that support overall health.
Bioavailability: Bioavailability refers to the degree and rate at which a substance, such as a nutrient or medication, is absorbed and becomes available for use or storage in the body. It is a crucial concept that connects the consumption of nutrients, minerals, and supplements to their ultimate impact on physiological processes and health outcomes.
Biotin: Biotin is a water-soluble B-vitamin (B7) essential for various metabolic processes. It plays a critical role in converting food into energy and maintaining healthy skin, hair, and neurological function.
Cholecalciferol: Cholecalciferol, also known as vitamin D3, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the regulation of calcium and phosphate homeostasis, as well as in the maintenance of the musculoskeletal and integumentary systems.
Choline: Choline is an essential nutrient that supports various bodily functions, including brain health and liver function. It is a precursor to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for memory and muscle control.
Citric acid cycle: The citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle or TCA cycle, is a series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to release stored energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA. It plays a crucial role in cellular respiration and is fundamental for energy production in cells.
Cobalamin: Cobalamin, also known as Vitamin B12, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and neurological function. It is naturally found in animal products and fortified foods.
Coenzyme: A coenzyme is a non-protein compound that binds with an enzyme to catalyze biochemical reactions. They are often derived from vitamins and essential for various metabolic processes in the body.
Coenzyme Function: Coenzymes are non-protein organic compounds that work in conjunction with enzymes to facilitate and enhance specific chemical reactions in the body. They play a crucial role in various metabolic processes, particularly those involving vitamins.
Collagen synthesis: Collagen synthesis is the process by which the body produces collagen, a crucial protein for skin, bones, and connective tissues. It involves multiple steps requiring specific vitamins and minerals to ensure proper formation and function.
Cooking techniques: Cooking techniques are methods or procedures used to prepare food by applying heat in various ways, affecting the nutritional content of the ingredients. They play a critical role in maintaining or altering the levels of macronutrients and micronutrients in meals.
Daily Value: Daily Value (DV) indicates the percentage of a nutrient provided by a serving of food in relation to the daily recommended amount. It helps consumers understand nutrient contributions from their diet based on a 2,000-calorie daily intake.
Daily Values: Daily Values are reference amounts of nutrients to consume or not to exceed each day, established by the FDA. They help individuals understand the nutrient content in the context of a total daily diet.
Deficiency Diseases: Deficiency diseases are a group of health conditions caused by the lack or insufficient intake of essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients. These diseases can have significant impacts on various bodily functions and overall well-being.
Dietary Recall: Dietary recall is a method of dietary assessment where an individual is asked to remember and report the foods and beverages they consumed over a specific period of time, typically the previous 24 hours or the previous day. This technique provides insights into an individual's nutrient intake, dietary patterns, and overall eating habits, which can be crucial in evaluating nutritional status, developing personalized dietary recommendations, and understanding the relationship between diet and various health outcomes.
Dietary Supplementation: Dietary supplementation refers to the practice of taking additional nutrients, vitamins, minerals, or other substances to supplement one's diet and address any nutritional deficiencies or support overall health. It is commonly used to enhance nutrient intake when dietary intake alone is insufficient.
FAD: FAD, or Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide, is a cofactor that plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes, particularly in the context of vitamins. It is a coenzyme derived from the B-complex vitamin riboflavin (vitamin B2) and is essential for numerous oxidation-reduction reactions within the body.
Fat-soluble vitamins: Fat-soluble vitamins are vitamins that dissolve in fats and oils and can be stored in the body's fatty tissue. They include vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Fat-soluble vitamins are a group of essential nutrients that are stored in the body\'s fatty tissues and liver. These vitamins require fat for absorption and transportation, and they play crucial roles in various physiological processes related to fats, vitamins, and treatments.
FDA: The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is a federal agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, food supply, cosmetics, and radiation-emitting products. It also regulates the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of tobacco products to protect public health.
FMN: FMN, or Flavin Mononucleotide, is a coenzyme derived from the vitamin Riboflavin (Vitamin B2). It plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes within the body, particularly in the context of vitamins and their functions.
Folate: Folate is a B-vitamin essential for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. It plays a crucial role in cell division and is particularly important during periods of rapid growth such as pregnancy and fetal development.
Folic acid: Folic acid is a water-soluble B vitamin (B9) essential for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. It is crucial for cell division and proper fetal development during pregnancy.
Food enrichment: Food enrichment is the process of adding essential nutrients back into foods that were lost during processing. It aims to restore the original nutritional value of the food.
Food processing: Food processing involves the transformation of raw ingredients into consumable food products through physical, chemical, or biological means. It aims to enhance food safety, shelf life, and nutritional quality.
Fortified foods: Fortified foods are products that have had nutrients added to them that were not originally present or were present in insignificant amounts. These additions aim to improve the nutritional quality of the food and provide a public health benefit.
Fortified Foods: Fortified foods are food products that have been enriched with additional nutrients, vitamins, or minerals beyond their natural state. This process is used to enhance the nutritional profile of foods and address potential nutrient deficiencies in the population.
Free radicals: Free radicals are unstable molecules with unpaired electrons that can cause cellular damage. They play a significant role in oxidative stress and various diseases, including those affecting pulmonary health.
Hartnup disease: Hartnup disease is a rare genetic disorder affecting the absorption of certain amino acids, particularly tryptophan, in the kidneys and intestines. This leads to deficiencies in essential vitamins like niacin (Vitamin B3).
Homocysteine: Homocysteine is an amino acid produced in the body as a byproduct of the metabolism of another amino acid called methionine. It is a key biomarker that can provide insights into various aspects of health, including neurological, hematological, and cardiovascular wellness.
Hypervitaminosis: Hypervitaminosis refers to the condition of having an excessive amount of one or more vitamins in the body, leading to adverse health effects. This can occur when individuals consume vitamins in excessive doses, either through dietary sources or supplements, beyond the recommended daily intake.
Malabsorption: Malabsorption is a condition in which the body is unable to properly absorb and utilize essential nutrients from the food consumed. This can lead to deficiencies and a range of health issues across various bodily systems.
Meal planning: Meal planning is the process of organizing meals ahead of time to ensure balanced nutrient intake. It involves selecting recipes, creating grocery lists, and scheduling meals to meet dietary needs.
Megaloblastic anemia: Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the presence of abnormally large red blood cells in the bone marrow and bloodstream. It is often caused by deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate, which are crucial for DNA synthesis.
Metabolism: Metabolism is the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms that convert food into energy, build and repair tissues, and manage waste. It encompasses catabolic pathways that break down molecules to produce energy, and anabolic pathways that utilize this energy to construct components of cells such as proteins and nucleic acids.
MyPlate: MyPlate is a visual guide created by the USDA to help individuals implement balanced eating habits. It divides a plate into five food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy.
NAD: NAD, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is an essential coenzyme found in all living cells. It plays a crucial role in a variety of metabolic processes, particularly in the context of vitamins, where it serves as a cofactor for numerous enzymatic reactions.
NADP: NADP, or Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate, is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes, particularly in the context of vitamins. It is a derivative of the vitamin niacin and serves as an important electron carrier in oxidation-reduction reactions within the body.
Neural tube defects: Neural tube defects are serious birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord that occur during the first month of pregnancy. They result from the neural tube failing to close completely.
Niacin: Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in energy metabolism and cellular function. It is essential for the health of the nervous system and skin.
Night Blindness: Night blindness, also known as nyctalopia, is a vision condition in which a person has difficulty seeing in low-light or dark environments. It is typically caused by a deficiency in vitamin A, which is essential for the proper functioning of the retina and the adaptation of the eyes to darkness.
Nutrition facts food label: A Nutrition Facts food label provides detailed information about a food product's nutrient content. It helps consumers understand the amount of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients in one serving of the product.
Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones, increasing the risk of fractures. It occurs when bone mineral density and bone mass decrease, or when the quality or structure of bone changes.
Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a chronic, progressive skeletal disorder characterized by a decrease in bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, leading to an increased risk of fractures. This condition is closely linked to various aspects of nutrition, including protein, vitamins, minerals, and supplements, as well as its impact on the musculoskeletal and integumentary systems across the lifespan.
Oxidation: Oxidation is a chemical reaction where a substance loses electrons, often resulting in the production of free radicals. In the body, it can lead to cellular damage if not regulated by antioxidants.
Pantothenic acid: Pantothenic acid is a water-soluble B vitamin essential for synthesizing coenzyme A, which is vital in energy metabolism. It also plays a role in the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and acetylcholine.
Parenteral Nutrition: Parenteral nutrition refers to the intravenous administration of nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals, to individuals who are unable to meet their nutritional needs through oral or enteral (tube) feeding. This method of nutrition delivery bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, providing essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream to support various aspects of health, including hematologic, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal wellness.
Percent Daily Value: Percent Daily Value (%DV) indicates the percentage of a nutrient in one serving of food, based on a daily diet of 2,000 calories. It helps consumers understand the nutritional value of a food item in the context of their overall daily nutrient needs.
Phylloquinone: Phylloquinone, also known as vitamin K1, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health. It is the primary form of vitamin K found in the human diet and is essential for the proper functioning of the body's coagulation system.
Pyridoxine: Pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B6, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for various metabolic processes. It plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter synthesis and cognitive development.
Retinol: Retinol, also known as vitamin A1, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within the body. It is an essential nutrient required for maintaining good vision, supporting immune function, and promoting healthy skin and bone development.
Rhodopsin: Rhodopsin is a light-sensitive pigment found in the retina of the eye that plays a crucial role in the process of vision. It is the primary photoreceptor molecule responsible for initiating the visual transduction cascade, which converts light energy into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.
Riboflavin: Riboflavin, also known as Vitamin B2, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in energy production and the metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids. It is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and neurological function.
Rickets: Rickets is a condition characterized by the softening and weakening of bones in children, primarily due to prolonged vitamin D deficiency. This can lead to skeletal deformities and impaired growth.
Rickets: Rickets is a condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, resulting in impaired bone mineralization and growth in children. It is characterized by soft, weak, and deformed bones.
Scurvy: Scurvy is a nutritional deficiency disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. It is characterized by a range of symptoms that affect various bodily systems, including the hematological, musculoskeletal, and integumentary systems.
Serum Vitamin Levels: Serum vitamin levels refer to the concentration of various vitamins measured in the blood serum, which is the liquid portion of the blood that remains after the removal of blood cells and clotting factors. These measurements provide insights into an individual's vitamin status and can help identify deficiencies or excesses that may require dietary or supplemental interventions.
Spina bifida: Spina bifida is a congenital birth defect where the spine and spinal cord do not form properly, resulting in an opening or gap in the spine. This condition can have varying degrees of severity and can impact neurological wellness across the lifespan, as well as have implications for vitamin intake during pregnancy.
Thiamin: Thiamin, also known as vitamin B1, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. It plays a critical role in converting carbohydrates into energy and maintaining proper neurological health.
Tocopherol: Tocopherol, also known as vitamin E, is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and preventing cellular damage. As a member of the vitamin E family, tocopherol is essential for various physiological processes in the body.
Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL): The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) is the highest daily nutrient intake level that is likely to pose no risk of adverse health effects for almost all individuals in the general population. It is an important concept in the context of vitamin intake and nutrition.
Toxicity: Toxicity is the degree to which a substance can damage an organism. In nutrition, it refers to the harmful effects of consuming excessive amounts of vitamins or other micronutrients.
Vitamin A: Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. It exists in two main forms: preformed vitamin A (retinol) and provitamin A carotenoids (beta-carotene).
Vitamin A: Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including vision, immune function, cell growth and differentiation, and the maintenance of healthy skin and mucous membranes. It is an essential nutrient that must be obtained through dietary sources or supplementation.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of the body. It acts as an antioxidant and plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, immune function, and absorption of iron from plant-based foods.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential water-soluble nutrient that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within the human body. It is required for the proper functioning of the immune system, collagen synthesis, wound healing, and antioxidant protection, among other important functions. Vitamin C is particularly relevant in the context of nutrition, vitamins, supplements, and the wellness of various body systems.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for the regulation of calcium and phosphorus in the body, crucial for maintaining bone health. It can be obtained from sunlight exposure, dietary sources, and supplements.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and wellness. It is often referred to as the 'sunshine vitamin' because the body can synthesize it when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D is essential for the regulation of calcium and phosphorus levels in the body, supporting strong bones and teeth, and it also has important functions in various other physiological processes.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage. It plays a crucial role in immune function, skin health, and neurological wellness.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant in the body. It plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy cells, supporting the immune system, and promoting cardiovascular and neurological wellness. Vitamin E is essential for proper nutrition, as outlined in the topics 1.1 What Is Nutrition?, 3.1 Vitamins, 3.3 Supplements, 13.2 Plan Nutritional Strategies to Impact Pulmonary Wellness, 13.4 Evaluate Nutritional Strategies to Impact Pulmonary Wellness, 14.1 The Impact of Nutrition on Pulmonary Wellness Across the Lifespan, 19.1 Assess and Analyze the Impact of Nutrition on the Musculoskeletal and Integumentary Systems, and 20.1 The Impact of Nutrition on Musculoskeletal and Integumentary Wellness Across the Lifespan.
Vitamin K: Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for blood clotting and bone health. It exists in two main forms: K1 (phylloquinone) found in plants, and K2 (menaquinone) produced by bacteria in the human gut.
Vitamin K: Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in blood clotting, bone health, and various other physiological processes. It is essential for the proper functioning of the body and is involved in several topics covered in the course, including nutrition, vitamins, supplements, hematological wellness, and the impact of nutrition on the musculoskeletal and integumentary systems.
Vitamins: Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential for normal growth, metabolism, and overall health. They must be obtained through the diet as the body either does not produce them or produces them in insufficient amounts.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential organic compounds that the body requires in small amounts for proper growth, development, and overall health. They are necessary for a wide range of metabolic and physiological processes, and their deficiency can lead to various health problems.
Water-soluble vitamins: Water-soluble vitamins are vitamins that dissolve in water and are not stored in the body. They must be consumed regularly in the diet as they are excreted in urine.
Water-soluble Vitamins: Water-soluble vitamins are a group of essential nutrients that dissolve in water and are readily absorbed and utilized by the body. They play crucial roles in various metabolic processes, energy production, and maintaining overall health and well-being.
Xerophthalmia: Xerophthalmia is a condition characterized by dry, inflamed eyes due to a deficiency of vitamin A. It is a leading cause of preventable blindness in developing countries, particularly affecting young children and pregnant women.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
Glossary
Glossary