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What are vitamins?
Organic (carbon-containing) compounds essential in small amounts for body processes, but do not independently provide energy.
How are vitamins broadly classified?
As fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) or water-soluble (B complex, C).
What is avitaminosis?
A condition meaning ‘without vitamins,’ referring to a serious lack of a specific vitamin.
What is hypervitaminosis?
A condition caused by excessive ingestion of one or more vitamins, potentially toxic.
What is a precursor or provitamin?
A substance from which the body can synthesize a specific vitamin.
What is carotenoids?
Plant pigments that are precursors to vitamin A.
What are coenzymes?
Active parts of an enzyme that help release energy from macronutrients.
What are vitamin supplements?
Concentrated forms of vitamins (tablets, capsules, drops) taken in addition to dietary intake.
List the four fat-soluble vitamins.
Vitamins A, D, E, and K.
What is a characteristic of fat-soluble vitamins regarding storage?
They can be stored in the liver, leading to slower deficiency appearance but potential toxicity with megadoses.
How are fat-soluble vitamins absorbed and transported?
They are absorbed and transported through the blood by lipoproteins.
What is the active form of Vitamin A?
Retinol, the preformed vitamin A.
What is the primary function of Vitamin A?
Maintenance of vision, especially in dim light.
List other functions of Vitamin A.
Growth and development of bones, reproduction, and a healthy immune system.
What is the role of provitamin A (carotenoids)?
They function as antioxidants, protecting cells from free radicals.
What is the recommended daily intake (RDA) of Vitamin A for adult males (19-70+ years)?
900 mcg RE
What is the recommended daily intake (RDA) of Vitamin A for adult females (19-70+ years)?
700 mcg RE
What is the Recommended Daily Intake (RDA) of Vitamin A during pregnancy?
770 mcg RE
What is the Recommended Daily Intake (RDA) of Vitamin A during lactation?
1,300 mcg RE
List food sources of preformed Vitamin A.
Liver, whole milk, butter, cream, cod liver oil, fortified margarine, and egg yolk
List food sources of provitamin A (carotenoids).
Dark-green leafy vegetables, deep-yellow/orange fruits and vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, pumpkin, mango, cantaloupe)
What is night blindness?
A deficiency symptom of Vitamin A, where vision is impaired in dim light.
What is xerophthalmia?
A serious eye disease characterized by dry, lusterless mucous membranes of the eye, leading to blindness if due to Vitamin A deficiency.