TYPES OF VITAMINS
There are two groups of vitamins. These are fat-soluble vitamins and water-
soluble vitamins.Fat-soluble vitamins
Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed by the intestinal tract following the same
metabolism as used with fat. Any condition that interferes with the absorption of
fats will also interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Fat-soluble
vitamins are stored in the liver, fatty tissues and muscle and remain in the body
longer than water-soluble vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins are excreted slowly in
urine. Hint to remember: ADEK =addicted to fat are fat soluble vitamins.
The following are fat-soluble vitamins.Vitamin A
Vitamin A (Acon, Aquasol) helps to maintain epithelial tissue, eyes, hair and bone
growth. It is also used for treatment of skin disorders such as acne. Vitamin A has
a toxic effect if taken in excess. For example, birth defects can occur if the patient
takes greater than 6000 international units (IU) during pregnancy. It is important to
keep in mind that Vitamin A is stored in the liver for up to two years, which can
result in inadvertent toxicity if the patient is administered large doses of Vitamin A.Vitamin D
Vitamin D, absorbed in the small intestine with the assistance of bile salts, is
necessary for the intestines to absorb calcium. Vitamin D plays a major role in(^140) CHAPTER 9 Vitamins and Minerals
B 3 Eggs, meat, liver, beans, peas,
niacin enriched bread and cereals
B 6 Lean meat, leafy green vegetables, Male: 15–19 mg/day
pyridoxine whole-grain cereals, yeast, bananas Female: 13–15 mg/day
Pregnancy: 18 mg/day
Lactating: 20 mg/day
B 12 Liver, kidney, fish, milk Male and female: 3 μ g/day
Pregnancy: 4 μ g/day
Folic Acid Leafy green vegetables, yellow Male and female: 400 μ g/day
fruits and vegetables, yeast, meats Pregnancy: 600–800 μ g/day
Lactating: 600–800 3 μ g/day
Table 9-1. (continued)