Chapter 8 Flashcards
What is a vitamin?
an organic compound essential in small quantities for normal metabolism and must be obtained from the diet because the body cannot synthesize enough of it.
What is a coenzyme?
A non-protein compound necessary for the functioning of an enzyme, helping enzymes catalyze reactions.
Water-soluble
(e.g., B-vitamins, Vitamin C) dissolve in water and are excreted in urine
Fat-soluble vitamins?
(A, D, E, K) are stored in fat tissue and the liver.
What is enrichment? Give an example.
process of adding back nutrients lost during food processing, like adding B vitamins to refined flour.
What is fortification? Give an example
process of adding nutrients to foods that weren’t originally there, like adding Vitamin D to milk.
What is bioavailability?
the proportion of a nutrient that is absorbed and used by the body.
What are the food sources of thiamin (Vitamin B1)?
Whole grains, enriched cereals and breads, pork, organ meats, legumes, and some green leafy vegetables.
What is the active form of thiamin and its function?
thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP), which is involved in energy production and nerve function.
What are the symptoms of thiamin deficiency?
muscle wasting, nerve damage, cardiovascular problems, and neurological symptoms, leading to beriberi.
What is the significance of polished/white rice in relation to thiamin?
Polished rice has the bran removed, leading to thiamin loss, which historically caused beriberi in populations reliant on white rice.
What is the coenzyme form of riboflavin (Vitamin B2)?
FAD (Flavin adenine dinucleotide) and FMN (Flavin mononucleotide)
What are the functions of riboflavin?
involved in energy production, fatty acid breakdown, and activating other vitamins like niacin, folate, and B6.
What are the symptoms of riboflavin deficiency (ariboflavinosis)?
Inflammation of eyes, lips, mouth, tongue; scaly skin; cracks in the corners of the mouth; confusion.
Why is the clear milk bottle significant for riboflavin?
Riboflavin is sensitive to light and can be destroyed if exposed, so opaque containers are recommended.