Vitamins - SS1 Biology Lesson Note

Vitamins are essential organic compounds required in small amounts for the normal functioning of the body. They are considered micronutrients because they are needed in smaller quantities compared to macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Vitamins are classified into two categories: fat-soluble vitamins and water-soluble vitamins.

1.     Fat-Soluble Vitamins: These vitamins dissolve in fat and are stored in the body's fatty tissues. The fat-soluble vitamins include:

§  Vitamin A: Important for vision, immune function, and cell growth. It is found in liver, dairy products, and orange-colored fruits and vegetables.

§  Vitamin D: Essential for calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function. It can be synthesized by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight and is also found in fatty fish and fortified foods.

§  Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. It is found in nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and green leafy vegetables.

§  Vitamin K: Crucial for blood clotting and bone health. It is present in leafy green vegetables, broccoli, and vegetable oils.

2.     Water-Soluble Vitamins: These vitamins dissolve in water and are not stored in the body for long periods. The water-soluble vitamins include:

§  Vitamin C: An antioxidant that aids in collagen synthesis, wound healing, and immune function. It is found in citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, and vegetables like peppers and broccoli.

§  B-vitamins: This group includes thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folate (B9), and cobalamin (B12). B-vitamins are involved in various processes such as energy metabolism, red blood cell production, and nervous system function. They are found in a range of foods, including whole grains, legumes, meat, fish, eggs, and leafy greens.

Vitamin deficiencies can lead to a range of ailments and health conditions. Here are some examples of vitamin deficiency ailments:

1.     Vitamin A Deficiency:

§  Night blindness and impaired vision.

§  Dry, rough, or scaly skin.

§  Increased susceptibility to infections.

§  Impaired growth and development in children.

2.     Vitamin D Deficiency:

§  Rickets in children, characterized by weak and brittle bones.

§  Osteomalacia in adults, causing bone pain and muscle weakness.

§  Increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

3.     Vitamin E Deficiency:

§  Peripheral neuropathy, causing muscle weakness, tingling, and loss of sensation.

§  Impaired immune function.

§  Increased susceptibility to oxidative stress and cellular damage.

4.     Vitamin K Deficiency:

§  Impaired blood clotting, leading to excessive bleeding and bruising.

§  Increased risk of hemorrhages, especially in newborns.

5.     Vitamin C Deficiency (Scurvy):

§  Fatigue and weakness.

§  Bleeding gums and tooth loss.

§  Impaired wound healing.

§  Joint pain and swelling.

6.     Thiamin (B1) Deficiency (Beriberi):

§  Weakness and fatigue.

§  Nerve damage, leading to numbness and tingling.

§  Muscle wasting and difficulty walking.

7.     Vitamin B12 Deficiency:

§  Anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

§  Nerve damage, resulting in tingling, numbness, and balance problems.

§  Memory loss, confusion, and mood disturbances.

8.     Folate (B9) Deficiency:

§  Anemia, like B12 deficiency.

§  Neural tube defects in newborns when deficiency occurs during pregnancy.

§  Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Figure 71 image from brainly.in