VITAMINS

A vitamin is an organic compound required as a nutrient in tiny amounts by an organism. In other words, an organic chemical compound (or related set of compounds) is called a vitamin when it cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by an organism, and must be obtained from the diet. Thus, the term is conditional both on the circumstances and on the particular organism. For example, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is a vitamin for humans, but not for most other animals, and biotin and vitamin D are required in the human diet only in certain circumstances. By convention, the term vitamin does not include other essential nutrients such as dietary minerals ,essential fatty acids, or essential amino acids (which are needed in larger amounts than vitamins), nor does it encompass the large number of other nutrients that promote health but are otherwise required less often. Thirteen vitamins are universally recognized at present. Vitamins are classified by their biological and chemical activity, not their structure. Thus, each "vitamin" refers to a number of vitamer compounds that all show the biological activity associated with a particular vitamin. Such a set of chemicals is grouped under an alphabetized vitamin "generic descriptor" title, such as "vitamin A", which includes the compounds retinal, retinol, and four known carotenoids. Vitamers by definition are convertible to the active form of the vitamin in the body, and are sometimes inter-convertible to one another, as well. Vitamins have diverse biochemical functions. Some have hormone-like functions as regulators of mineral metabolism (e.g., vitamin D), or regulators of cell and tissue growth and differentiation (e.g., some forms of vitamin A). Others function as antioxidants (e.g., vitamin E and sometimesvitamin C). The largest number of vitamins (e.g., B complex vitamins) function as precursors for enzyme cofactors, that help enzymes in their work as catalysts in metabolism. In this role, vitamins may be tightly bound to enzymes as part of prosthetic groups: For example, biotin is part of enzymes involved in making fatty acids. Vitamins may also be less tightly bound to enzyme catalysts as coenzymes, detachable molecules that function to carry chemical groups or electrons between molecules. For example, folic acid carries various forms of carbon group methyl, formyl, and methylene in the cell. Although these roles in assisting enzyme-substrate

reactions are vitamins' best-known function, the other vitamin functions are equally important.

In humans Vitamins are classified as either water-soluble or fat-soluble. In humans there are 13 vitamins: 4 fat-soluble (A, D, E, and K) and 9 water-soluble (8 B vitamins and vitamin C). Water-soluble vitamins dissolve easily in water and, in general, are readily excreted from the body, to the degree that urinary output is a strong predictor of vitamin consumption. Because they are not readily stored, consistent daily intake is important. Many types of water-soluble vitamins are synthesized by bacteria.[ Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed through the intestinal tract with the help of lipids (fats). Because they are more likely to accumulate in the body, they are more likely to lead to hypervitaminosis than are water-soluble vitamins. Fatsoluble vitamin regulation is of particular significance in cystic fibrosis.

There are several roles for vitamins and trace minerals in diseases: 1. Deficiencies of vitamins and minerals may be caused by disease states such as mal absorption; 2. Deficiency and excess of vitamins and minerals can cause disease in and of themselves (e.g., vitamin A intoxication and liver disease); 3. Vitamins and minerals in high doses may be used as drugs (e.g., niacin for hypercholesterolemia).

Vitamins are essential for the normal growth and development of a multi-cellular organism. The developing fetus requires certain vitamins and minerals to be present at certain times. If there is serious deficiency in one or more of these nutrients, a child may develop a deficiency disease. Deficiencies of vitamins are classified as either primary or secondary. 1. Primary Deficiency: A primary deficiency occurs when you do not get enough of the vitamin in the food you eat.

2. Secondary Deficiency: A secondary deficiency may be due to an underlying disorder that prevents or limits the absorption or use of the vitamin. Types of Vitamins Vitamins, one of the most essential nutrients required by the body and can be broadly classified into two main categories i.e., water-soluble vitamins and fatsoluble vitamins. Water-soluble vitamins Water-soluble vitamins cannot be stored in the body, so you need to get them from food every day. They can be destroyed by overcooking. These are easily absorbed by the body. Human body doesn't store large amounts of water-soluble vitamins. B-complex vitamins and vitamin C are water-soluble vitamins that are not stored in the body and must be replaced each day. These vitamins are easily destroyed or washed out during food storage and preparation. They are eliminated in urine so, body need a continuous supply of them in diets. Proper storage and preparation of food can minimize vitamin loss. To reduce vitamin loss, refrigerate fresh produce, keep milk and grains away from strong light, and use the cooking water from vegetables to prepare soups. An excess of water soluble vitamins should not result in any side effects as they will disperse in the body fluids and voided in the urine. Nine of the water-soluble vitamins are known as the B-complex group: Thiamin (vitamin B1), Riboflavin (vitamin B2), Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Pantothenic acid and Vitamin C. These vitamins are widely distributed in foods. Fat-soluble vitamins The fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E and K - since they are soluble in fat and are absorbed by the body from the intestinal tract. The human body has to use bile acids to absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Once these vitamins are absorbed, the body stores them in body fat. When you need them, your body takes them out of storage to be used. Eating fats or oils that are not digested can cause shortages of fat-soluble vitamins.

Fat soluble vitamins should not be consumed in excess as they are stored in the body and an excess can result in side effects. An excess of vitamin A may result in irritability, weight loss, dry itchy skin in children and nausea, headache, diarrhea in adults. Characteristics of the vitamins are: 1. Most of the vitamins have been artificially synthesized. 2. Some of vitamins are soluble in water and others are fat-soluble. 3. Some vitamins are synthesized in the body. Some members of vitamin B complex are synthesized by microorganisms in the intestinal tract. 4. Vitamins are partly destroyed and are partly excreted. 5. Vitamins can be stored in the body to some extent, for example the fatsoluble vitamins are stored in the liver and subcutaneous tissue. 6. Vitamins can perform their work in very small quantities. Hence, the total daily requirement is usually very small.

Vitamin A - Retinol, Carotene Vitamin A works together with vitamins D, B, E, zinc, phosphorus and calcium. It also acts as an antioxidant, which may help protect against cancer and other diseases. Solubility: Fat Functionality: Healthy formation of bones, teeth, skin; maintenance of outer layer of many tissues and organs; promotes growth and vitality; essential in pregnancy and lactation; necessary for night vision; good for growth and repair of body tissues; good for health of hair and eyes Rich Sources: Eggs, Dark Green & Yellow Fruits and Vegetables, Dairy Products, Liver

Deficiency Disease: Night-blindness and Keratomalacia, Keratinisation of the nasal and respiratory passage epithelium Overdose Disease: Hypervitaminosis A Deficiency Symptoms: Defective Teeth and Gums, Allergies, Dry Hair, Retarded Growth, Susceptibility to Infections, Night Blindness, Eye Irritations, Sinus Trouble, Dry Skin, Loss of Smell. Deficiency Occurs in: 1. People who limit their consumption of liver, dairy foods, and beta-carotenecontaining vegetables can develop a vitamin A deficiency. 2. Extremely low birth weight babies

Vitamin B-1 - Thiamine Assists in production of blood formation, carbohydrate metabolism, and affects energy levels in the body. Solubility: Water Functionality: Carbohydrate metabolism appetite regulation, important in nervous system and growth Rich Sources: Baked Potato, Beef kidney/liver, Brewer's yeast, Flour; rye and whole grain, Garbanzo beans (chickpeas), Dried Ham, Kidney beans, Dried Navy beans, Dried Orange juice, Oranges, Oysters, Peanuts, Peas, Raisins, Rice, brown and raw, Wheat germ, Whole-grain products.

Deficiency Disease: Beriberi Overdose Disease: N/A Deficiency Symptoms: Symptoms include fatigue, depression, decreased mental functioning, muscle cramps, nausea, heart enlargement, and eventually beriberi. Alcoholics are at increased risk of a deficiency. Deficiency Occurs in: 1. Most commonly found in alcoholics 2. People with Malabsorption conditions 3. Those eating a very poor diet 4. Also common in children with congenital heart disease 5. People with chronic fatigue syndrome 6. Individuals undergoing regular kidney dialysis

Vitamin C - Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C is an antioxidant vitamin that protects cells from oxidative damage. Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen (for wound healing), hormones and neurotransmitters; it may have a role in fighting infection. Solubility: Water Functionality: Helps heal wounds, scar tissue and fractures, Essential for healthy bones, teeth and gums, Builds resistance to infection, Prevents scurvy, Gives strength to

blood vessels, Aids in absorption of iron, Is essential for the synthesis of collagen Rich Sources: Citrus Fruits, Tomatoes, Melons, Berries, Green & Red Peppers, Broccoli

Deficiency Disease: Scurvy Overdose Disease: Refer to Vitamin C megadosage Deficiency Symptoms: Prolonged healing of wounds, Easy bruising, Frequent infections, Prolonged colds, Scurvy: weak muscles, fatigue, loss of teeth, bleeding gums, depression, bleeding beneath the skin, Swollen or painful joints, Nosebleeds, Anemia: tired, paleness Deficiency Occurs in: 1. Smokers 2. Women with Preeclampsia, who have lower blood levels 3. People with kidney failure Vitamin D - Cholecalciferol, sunshine vitamin Vitamin D is necessary for the reproduction of new skin cells. It is one of only three vitamins that are absorbed by the skin (the other two are vitamins A and E). It plays a key role in ensuring the absorption of calcium from the intestines. Solubility: Fat Functionality: Required for bone and teeth formation, Improves absorption and utilization of Phosphorous and Calcium, Maintains stable nervous system

Rich Sources: Egg Yolk, Fatty Fish, Milk; Also made in Skin when exposed to Sunlight

Deficiency Disease: Rickets and Osteomalacia Overdose Disease: Hypervitaminosis D Deficiency Symptoms: Symptoms include bone pain and tenderness and Muscle Weakness. In children, Rickets may occur, in which bones lose calcium and become soft and curved. Without proper intake, there is an increased risk of Osteoporosis, Arthritis, and Cancer. Deficiency Occurs in: 1. More common in strict vegetarians 2. Dark-skinned people 3. Alcoholics 4. People with liver or kidney disease 5. People with hyperparathyroidism 6. Also common in men with advanced prostate cancer Vitamin K - Phytonadione Vitamin K is necessary for proper bone growth and blood coagulation. It accomplishes this by helping the body transport calcium. Solubility: Fat Functionality: Vitamin K is known as the clotting vitamin, because without it blood would not

clot. Some studies indicate that it helps in maintaining strong bones in the elderly. Vitamin K plays an important role in the intestines and aids in converting glucose into glycogen for storage in the liver, promoting healthy liver function. Rich Sources: Green Leafy Vegetables, Beef Liver and Cheese. It is also found in asparagus, coffee, bacon and green tea. Vitamin K is also made by the bacteria that line the gastrointestinal tract.

Deficiency Disease: Bleeding Diathesis, Delayed clotting & Hemorrhaging, Cholestatic Constipation, Patients may show signs of bruising easily and have nosebleeds. Overdose Disease: Brain Damage and Impaired Liver Function Deficiency Symptoms: Symptoms include prolonged clotting time, easy bleeding, and bruising. This deficiency is rare in adults and normally limited to those with liver or food absorption disorders. However, it may occur in premature babies. Deficiency Occurs in: 1. People with certain Malabsorption diseases 2. Hospitalized patients who had poor food intake and were receiving antibiotics 3. Sometimes develop in breast-fed infants Vitamin Facts 1. A lot of the vitamins in fruits and vegetables are lost between the farm and your plate. The longer the foods are stored before you eat them, the more

nutrients are lost. Heat, light, and exposure to air all reduce the amount of vitamins, especially Vitamin C, thiamin, and folic acid. 2. About 25% of US households do not have balanced meals to meet the requirements that the body needs in digesting enough nutrients to sustain the body's health and fuel factors. 3. Research has shown that almost all varieties of disease can be produced by the deficiency of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients. Vitamins are vital for your skin. The most important factor of nutritional deficiencies is the intense processing and refining of foods like cereals and sugar. 4. The human body uses food to manufacture all its building blocks as well as to provide fuel. To do this, it performs several thousand different chemical reactions. Each reaction is controlled by "enzymes" and "coenzymes". Some of the coenzymes contain vitamins which the body cannot make by itself and which must be obtained from outside the body.