FAT SOLUBLE VITAMINS

• • Deficiency can lead to xerophthalmia, Bitot's spot, hyperkeratosis, and Vitamin A deficiency disorder (VADD)
• Vitamin A:

  • Refers to a series of compounds called retinoids, including retinol, retinoic acid, and retinal
  • Retinoids are preformed Vitamin A
  • Retinol is the most potent form of Vitamin A and can be synthesized in the body from retinal
  • Carotenoids are compounds similar to retinoids, with two types: provitamin A carotenoids (e.g. β-Carotene) and nonprovitamin A carotenoids (e.g. Lycopene, astaxanthin, zeaxanthin, and lutein)
  • Dietary sources include yellow, orange, and red fruits and vegetables
  • Functions include vision, cell differentiation, growth & reproduction, and immune function
• Vitamin D:

  • Two forms: Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2) found in plant sources and Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) found in animal food and made by the body
  • Stable and not destroyed during food preparation, processing, and storage
  • Functions include activation, prevention of rickets, osteomalacia, and osteoporosis
  • Deficiency can lead to rickets and osteomalacia
• Vitamin E:

  • Refers to 8 different compounds with similar chemical structures, with α-tocopherol being the most biologically active
  • Functions as an antioxidant, protecting cell membranes and promoting eye health
  • Deficiency is uncommon and can lead to hemolytic anemia
• Vitamin K:

  • Present in 3 forms: Phylloquinone (Vit K1), Menaquinone (Vit K2), and Menadione (Vit K3)
  • High in dark green vegetables
  • Functions include blood clotting
  • Deficiency is rare in adults but can appear in infants and adults on prolonged antibiotics
  • No known toxicity