Lecture 7b- 25 February 2015 VITAMINS-FAT SOLUBLE-I

WHAT ARE THE FAT SOLUBLE VITAMINS A, D, E, K

VITAMIN A Function-dark adaptation, normal growth and development of bones and teeth, normal functioning of skin, membranes, hair, gums and various glands, immune function Sources-retinol- liver, dairy products, fortified milk, margarine, ready to eat cereals -carotenoids- spinach, broccoli, carrots, peaches, pumpkin, red peppers

VITAMIN A CONTINUED Deficiencies- night blindness, abnormal bone and teeth growth and development, dry cracking skin and cornea, decreased saliva production and intestinal mucous secretion (digestion and absorption problems), increased risk of infection Toxicities– headaches, vomiting, bone abnormalities, liver damage, birth defects

VITAMIN D Function- maintains blood calcium concentrations by stimulation of calcium absorption, release of calcium from bones and calcium recovery from kidney Sources-sunlight, liver, fatty fish, fortified milk and margarine

VITAMIN D CONTINUED Deficiencies- rickets in children (slowed bone growth, bowing of legs, knock knees, malformed and decayed teeth, protrusion of the abdomen (slack muscles)) osteomalcia (bone softening) in adults (pain, easy breakage), involuntary muscle twitching Toxicities-kidney stones and damage, calcification of soft tissues, bone and muscle weakness, loss of appetite, headache

VITAMIN E Function-polyunsaturated fatty acid and cell membrane antioxidant, protects structural integrity of vitamin A Sources-vegetable oils, nuts, seeds Deficiencies-red blood cell (RBC) breakup, anemia, -neuromuscular (degeneration, weakness, difficulty walking, leg cramps) Toxicities-generally non toxic - anticoagulant synergist -nausea, stomach cramps -blurred vision, fatigue

VITAMIN K Function-synthesis of blood clotting proteins and a bone protein that regulates blood calcium Sources -liver, milk, cabbage family vegetables Deficiencies-bleeding Toxicity-interference with anticlotting medications