Vitamin
Vitamin
Vitamin (/ˈvaɪtəmɪn/) is a group of organic compounds that are essential for normal growth and nutrition. They are required in small quantities in the diet because they cannot be synthesized by the body.
Etymology
The term "vitamin" is derived from the word "vitamine," which was coined in 1912 by Polish biochemist Kazimierz Funk. The word is a combination of "vita," meaning life, and "amine," after compounds Funk initially thought were amines.
Types of Vitamins
Vitamins are classified into two groups:
- Fat-soluble vitamins - These are stored in the fat tissues of our bodies and the liver. They are easier to store than water-soluble vitamins and can stay in the body as reserves for days, some of them for months. Fat-soluble vitamins include Vitamins A, D, E, and K.
- Water-soluble vitamins - These cannot be stored in the body and need to be replaced regularly in our diet. Water-soluble vitamins include the B vitamins and vitamin C.
Functions of Vitamins
Vitamins have different biochemical functions. For instance, vitamin D helps in mineral absorption and bone building. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and protects vitamins A and C, red blood cells, and essential fatty acids from destruction.
Related Terms
- Minerals - Inorganic substances that are also essential for human health.
- Nutrients - Substances that provide nourishment essential for the maintenance of life and for growth.
- Dietary Supplements - Products taken orally that contain one or more ingredients (such as vitamins or amino acids) that are intended to supplement one's diet and are not considered food.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vitamin
- Wikipedia's article - Vitamin
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