VITAMINS
The Vitamins are necessary auxiliaries in metabolism. They combine with specific proteins, as parts of various oxidative enzyme systems which are concerned with the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fat in the body. Thus, they are intimately involved in the mechanism which releases energy, carbon dioxide and water as the end products of metabolism.
Vitamins can be broadly divided into Fat Soluble and Water Soluble Vitamins. Vitamins A D E and K are fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamins B ( B1 B2 B6 B12 ) and C are water-soluble. Vitamin - A
Year1913
Retinol
Main Metabolic FunctionEssential for normal growth and development.
For normal function of epithelical cells and normal development of teeth and bones.
Prevents Night blindness.
Deficiency - EffectsRetarded growth.
Reduced resistance to infection.
Abnormal function of gastrointestinal, and respiratory tracts due to altered epithelial membranes.
Interferes with production of "night purple".
AvailableMilk, Egg yolk, Ghee, Butter, Carrots, Tomatoes, Leafy and Yellow vegetables, Cod liver oil and Fresh fruits.
NatureFat-Soluble
Year1936
Thiamin
Main Metabolic FunctionAn important aid in carbohydrate metabolism.
Needed for Proper functioning of the digestive tract and nervous system.
Beriberi.
Loss of muscle.
Deficiency - EffectsLoss of appetite.
Impaired digestion of starches and sugars.
Various nervous disorder coordination.
AvailablePeas, Beans and Cereals.
NatureWater-Soluble
Vitamin - B2
Year1935
Riboflavin
Main Metabolic FunctionNeeded in formation of certain enzymes and in cellular oxidation.
Prevents inflammation of oral mucous membranes and the tongue.
Deficiency - EffectsImpaired growth, lassitude and weakness.
Causes cheillosis or glossittis.
May result in Photophobia and cataracts.
AvailablePeas, Beans and Cereals.
NatureWater-Soluble
Vitamin - B6
Year1934
Pyridoxine
Main Metabolic FunctionActs as do other B vitamins.
To break down protein, carbohydrate and fat.
Acts as a catalyst in the formation of niacin from tryptophan.
Deficiency - EffectsIncreased irritability, convulsions and peripheral neuritis.
Anorexia, nausea and vomiting.
AvailablePeas, Beans and Cereals.
NatureWater-Soluble
Vitamin - B12
Year1948
Cyanocobalamin
Main Metabolic FunctionEssential for development of red blood cells.
Required for maintenance of skin, nerve tissues, bone and muscles.
Deficiency - EffectsResults in pernicious anaemia.
Weakness, fatigue, sore and cracked lips.
AvailablePeas, Beans and Cereals.
NatureWater-Soluble
Vitamin - C
Year1919
Ascorbic Acid
Main Metabolic FunctionNeeded for form the cementing substance, collagen, in various tissues (skin, dentine, cartilage and bone matrix).
Assists in woundhealing and bone fractures.
Deficiency - EffectsLowered resistance to infections.
Susceptibility to dental cavities, pyotthea and bleeding gums.
Delayed wound healing.
Specific treatment for Scurvy.
AvailableFresh vegetables, Lemon, Orange, Tomatoes, Cabbage , Turnip and Lettuce (Beetroot).
NatureWater-Soluble
Year1925
Cholecalciferol
Main Metabolic FunctionRequlates absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the intestinal tract.
Affords antiachitic activity.
Deficiency - EffectsInterferes with utilisation of calcium and phosphorus in bone and teeth formation.
Development of bone disease, rickets and caries.
AvailableButter, Milk, Ghee, Cod liver oil, Yolk of Eggs and also in Sunrays.
NatureFat-Soluble
Vitamin - E
Year1936
Tocopherols
Main Metabolic FunctionProtects tissues, cell membranes and Vitamin A against peroxidation.
Helps strengthen red blood cells.
Deficiency - EffectsDecreased red blood cell resistance to rupture.
AvailableGerminating Wheat.
NatureFat-Soluble
Vitamin - K
Year1935
Phytomenadione
Main Metabolic FunctionEssential for formation of normal amounts of prothrombin and blood coagulation.
Deficiency - Effectsdiminished blood clotting time.
Increased incidence of hemorrhages.
AvailableFish, Wheat and Oats.
NatureFat-Soluble
Posted: Thursday, 14 July, 2011 By Ramesh Patidar
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