Chapter 7: Vitamins
Chapter 7 Vitamins The Nature of Vitamins A. Definition - Vitamins are organic substances needed by the body in small amounts for normal metabolism, growth and maintenance - Coenzymes are substances that activate enzymes - do not provide energy B. Classification - major distinguishing characteristic of vitamins are their solubility in either fat or water - measured in micrograms C. Fat Soluble Vitamins - are absorbed from the intestine in the same way as fats, and like fats they can be stored in the same way - A, D, E, K - toxicity from vitamin A and D can be fatal D. Water Soluble Vitamins - B vitamins and C ? less stable to environmental influences; only B12 stored for any length of time Vitamin A A. Forms - necessary for vision