4.1 Vitamins: Vital Dietary Components Part 2 Flashcards
What are fat soluble vitamins dependent on?
fat for absorption
Where are fat soluble vitamins stored?
liver
adipose tissue
Which vitamins have the highest risk of being toxic?
vitamin A animal derived
vitamin D
What can lead to a deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins?
diseases
weight loss medications
laxatives
What are the two forms of vitamin A?
- animal sources = preformed vitamin A
- plant sources = provitamin A carotenoids
Where are carotenoids found?
yellow, orange, and red vegetables
What are antioxidants?
stop the reactive substances from potentially causing damage to cells
What are free radicals?
unstable substances that may cause damage to DNA, proteins, and other molecules
What are other carotenoids that are considered antioxidants?
lycopene, zeaxanthin, and lutein
What is the main function of vitamin A?
vision
What is the main function of retinal?
helps the eye adjust from bright to dim light
What is night blindness?
condition where the eye loses the ability to adjust to light
What is nigh blindness an early indicator of?
vitamin A deficiency
What is xeropthalmia?
inability of the eye to produce mucus and keep the eye moist
What is the cause of xeropthalmia?
vitamin A deficiency
What is the leading cause of vision loss?
macular degeneration
What is the secondary function of vitamin A?
external skin health and GI epithelial lining health that act as barriers to bacteria and provide immunity from infection
What are the tertiary functions of vitamin A?
growth, reproduction, and development and disease prevention
What two diseases can be prevented with proper vitamin A consumption?
cancer
cardiovascular disease
What are good sources of vitamin A?
liver
fish
fish oils
fortified milk
yogurt
egg
