Provitamin
Provitamin
Provitamin (/proʊˈvaɪtəmɪn/) is a substance that the body can convert into a vitamin. Provitamins are part of the larger group of nutrients necessary for the body's growth and development.
Etymology
The term "provitamin" comes from the Latin pro- meaning "before" and vitamin, indicating its role as a precursor to vitamins.
Types of Provitamins
There are several types of provitamins, including:
- Beta-Carotene: This is a provitamin A, which the body can convert into retinol, an active form of vitamin A.
- Ergosterol: This is a provitamin D, which the body can convert into vitamin D2.
- Tocopherol: This is a provitamin E, which the body can convert into vitamin E.
Function
Provitamins are inactive compounds that the body can transform into active vitamins. They are essential for various bodily functions, including maintaining healthy skin and vision, promoting immune system function, and aiding in the absorption of calcium.
Related Terms
- Vitamin: A nutrient that an organism requires in small amounts.
- Nutrient: A substance used by an organism to survive, grow, and reproduce.
- Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Provitamin
- Wikipedia's article - Provitamin
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