Vitamins are compounds found in food that help regulate body processes.
There are two types of vitamins, water soluble and fat-soluble.
Water soluble means they can dissolve in water and pass easily into the
bloodstream during digestion. The body doesn’t store these vitamins;
any unused amounts are removed by the kidneys. Water soluble vitamins
include Vitamin C, folic acid and the B vitamins.
Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in body fat for later use. If consumed in
large amounts, these vitamins can build up in the body to the point where
they become harmful. Fat-soluble vitamins include A, D, E, and K.
Water Soluble Vitamins
Vitamin B7 (Biotin),
also known as Vitamin H
is actually a coenzyme rather
than a ‘vitamin’ per say.
Biotin is a vital vitamin for:
• Synthesis of fatty acids
• Aids in fat metabolism
• Aids in carbohydrate metabolism
• Aids in level blood glucose levels
• Aids in amino acid metabolism
• Necessary for healthy skin and hair
cell growth
• Helps to transfer carbon dioxide
Conditions Related to Biotin Deficiency
• Diabetes
• Depression
• Seborrheic dermatitis (infants)
• Alcoholism
• Total balding
• Brittle
Fat Soluble Vitamins
Water
Soluble
Vitamins
Fat-Soluble
Vitamins
• Produces energy
• Maintains healthy bones
Food Sources
dairy products
peas
meat
eggs
some cereals
breads
fish
poultry
• Magnesium maintains normal
muscle and nerve function
• Sustains regular heartbeat
• Aids in bone growth and
energy production
• Iron is part of a compound in the
red blood cells needed for carrying
oxygen.
• Aids in energy use
• Supports immune system
Minerals
Water
Water is essential for most body functions. All of the body cells contain
water. Water’s functions include:
• moving food through the digestive system.
• digesting carbohydrates and protein, and aiding other chemical
reactions in the body.
• transporting nutrients and removing wastes.
• storing and releasing heat.
• cooling the body through perspiration.
• cushioning the eyes, brain, and spinal cord.
• lubricating the joints.