fat soluble vitamins Flashcards
1
Q
what are fat soluble vitamins
A
- fat soluble vitamins can be usually stored in the body in the liver
- they include vitamin A, D & E
- each has its own specific function in the body
2
Q
what is the function of vitamin A
A
- to make visual purple - substance in the eye to assist in good vision especially in dim light
- to keep mucous membranes healthy
- for maintenance of healthy skin
- for normal growth in children
3
Q
what are sources of vitamin A
A
Retinol (animal sources)
- milk
- cheese
- eggs
- liver
- oily fish
Beta - carotene (plant sources)
- carrots
- tomatoes
- apricots
- spinach
- cabbage
4
Q
what happens if there is not enough vitamin A in the diet
A
- reduced vision in dim light leading to night blindness
- dry and infected skin and mucous membranes
5
Q
what happens if there is too much vitamin A in the diet
A
- during pregnancy can be harmful to the developing baby. however it’s important to get the balance right to prevent the pregnant women becoming vitamin A deficient
6
Q
what is the function of vitamin D?
A
- proper formation of bones and teeth
- promote quicker healing of bone fractures
- required for absorption of calcium and phosphorus
7
Q
what are sources of vitamin D?
A
- cod liver oil
- oily fish
- liver
- egg yolk
- fortified foods such as margarine and breakfast cereals
8
Q
what happens if there is not enough vitamin D in the diet ?
A
- poor growth and risk of tickets ( child)
- osteomalacia in adults and elderly
9
Q
what happens if there is too much vitamin D in the diet ?
A
VERY RARE
- Lead to deposits of calcium in the blood and heart
