VITAMINS

Most plants synthesize all of these substances.

Animals generally lost their ability to synthesize so they must obtain vitamins from food molecules.

Human cells need

At least 13 different vitamins Each of them has specific functions in various

metabolic activities. Absence of one vitamin cannot be

compensated with another.

Cannot be used as energy source! Cannot be used structural materials either.

We can use some of the vitamins right after we get nutrition,

For some of them; the initial substance called provitamin is taken firstly and converted to the original vitamin molecule.

VITAMINS

Fat soluble vitamins A D E K

Water soluble vitamins B C

Vitamin A (Retinol)

Important for growth Daily need: 1-2 mg Firstly taken as Provitamin A then converted

to Vitamin A Released to bloodstream.

Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

Works with vitamin A in the development of the ovaries and the testes.

Water Soluble Vitamins

B and C groups

Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C involves in oxidation and reduction reactions

Joins the structure of FAD molecule

Vitamin B5

Widely distributed in nature. Essential for the synthesis of coenzyme A

(functions in conversion of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins into energy)

Contributes to the production of suprarenal hormones so it’s called as Anti – stress vitamin

VITAMINS Function in the body

Deficiency symptoms

A Help the production of mucus

Damage the skin and mucous membranes, causing infections

D Help absorption of Ca and P ions through intestines, calcification of bones

Bone deformation, rickets

E Prevents damage to cell membrane

Damage the red blood cells, anemia

K Help blood clotting hemorrhaging

C Hormone, bone and collagen production

Retarded growth, swollen gums and joints

B9(Folic Acid) Help nucleic acid synthesis

Anemia

B12 Help nucleic acid and amini acid metabolism

Nervous abnormalities and anemia