Vitamins Flashcards
Vit A function
vision (maintenance of cornea)
gene expression
protein synthesis and cell differentiation
immunity
reproduction, growth and development
Beta-carotene’s role
Antioxidant
Vit A Def
infections diseases, night blindness, blindness
All epithelial surfaces harden and flatten
Vit A tox
reduced bone mineral density, liver abnormalities
blurred vision, N&V, pressure inside skull, headache
Vit A sources
Retinol, beta-carotene
Retinol sources
milt, eggs, liver
Beta-carotene sources
spinach, leafy greens, broccoli, deep orange fruits
Vit D function
Mineralization of bones
Brain and nerve cells? Muscle cells?
Two forms of vit D
D2 (plant foods form)
D3 (animal foods, synthesized in body)
How does Vit D metabolized?
requires conversions by the liver and kidneys
What is Vit D?
Hormone
Vit D def
rickets (weakening of bones)
osteomalacia (bone softening)
osteoporosis (reduced bone density)
Vit D tox
calcium imbalance (formation of stones and calcification of soft tissues)
Vit D sources
synthesized in body from sunshine
fortified foods, eggs, liver, fatty fish
Vit E function
antioxidant (stabilization of cell membranes)
protects lungs
reduce LDL
Vit E def
erythrocyte hemolysis
nerve damage
loss of muscle coordination
impaired movement, vision and speech
Vit E tox
hemorrhagic effect (blood clotting)
Vit E sources
plant oils, green leafy veg, wheat germ, whole grain, nuts, seeds
Vit K function
synthesis of blood clotting proteins and bone proteins
What vitamin injection do infants get at birth?
vit K
Vit K def
hemorrhage
fat malabsorption