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Vitamins are organic substances present in small amounts in many foods. They are required for carrying out many vital functions of the body and many of them are involved in the utilization of
major nutrients like proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
Although they are needed in small amounts, they are essential for health and well being of the body.
Vitamins can be broadly classified as water soluble and fat-soluble vitamins. B- complex vitamins and
ascorbic acid belong to the former group while vitamins A, D,
E and K are the fat-soluble vitamins. Water-soluble vitamins are not accumulated in the body, but are readily excreted while fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body. For this reason, excessive intake of fat-soluble
vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin D can prove toxic. |
