VITAMINS Most plants synthesize all of these substances. Animals generally lost their ability to synthesize so they must obtain vitamins from food molecules.

Human cells need At least 13 different vitamins Each of them has specific functions in various metabolic activities. Absence of one vitamin cannot be compensated with another.

Cannot be used as energy source ! Cannot be used structural materials either. We can use some of the vitamins right after we get nutrition, For some of them; the initial substance called provitamin is taken firstly and converted to the original vitamin molecule.

VITAMINS Fat soluble vitamins A D E K Water soluble vitamins B C

Vitamin A (Retinol) Important for growth Daily need: 1-2 mg Firstly taken as Provitamin A then converted to Vitamin A Released to bloodstream.

Vitamin E (Tocopherol) Works with vitamin A in the development of the ovaries and the testes.

Water Soluble Vitamins B and C groups Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12 Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C involves in oxidation and reduction reactions

Joins the structure of FAD molecule

Vitamin B5 Widely distributed in nature. Essential for the synthesis of coenzyme A (functions in conversion of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins into energy) Contributes to the production of suprarenal hormones so it’s called as Anti – stress vitamin

VITAMINSFunction in the body Deficiency symptoms A Help the production of mucus Damage the skin and mucous membranes, causing infections D Help absorption of Ca and P ions through intestines, calcification of bones Bone deformation, rickets E Prevents damage to cell membrane Damage the red blood cells, anemia K Help blood clottinghemorrhaging C Hormone, bone and collagen production Retarded growth, swollen gums and joints B9(Folic Acid) Help nucleic acid synthesis Anemia B12 Help nucleic acid and amini acid metabolism Nervous abnormalities and anemia