Vitamins Flashcards
What are vitamins?
Vitamins are organic compounds known as micronutrients.
Why are vitamins important for animals?
They are required in small quantities in animals to maintain health.
What happens if there are deficiencies of certain vitamins?
Deficiencies of certain vitamins cause specific disorders or deficiency diseases.
What role do many vitamins play in the body?
Many vitamins are co-factors which assist enzymes with metabolic reactions.
Can plants and microorganisms synthesize vitamins?
Yes, plants and microorganisms are able to synthesize their own vitamins.
How do animals obtain vitamins?
Animals need to consume them in their diet.
What is a characteristic of water-soluble vitamins?
Water-soluble vitamins cannot be stored and need to be consumed daily.
What is a characteristic of fat-soluble vitamins?
Fat-soluble vitamins can be stored in the liver and fatty tissues.
Examples include vitamins A, D, and E.