fat soluble vitamins
January 4, 2008
The Benefits of Fat-Soluble Vitamins
There are two types of vitamins; the fat-soluble vitamin and the water-soluble vitamin. Simply defined, water-soluble vitamins are the types that easily dissolve in water. Vitamin C is the best example of vitamins falling under this type. On the other hand, fat-soluble vitamins are the ones that require the body to contain certain amount of fats in order for them to properly absorb their nutrients. Examples of fat-soluble vitamins are Vitamin A, D, E, and K.
Only small amounts of fat-soluble vitamins are required by the body in order for them to maintain good health. And if the body is given too much of these vitamins, they will merely transform into toxins that will eventually cause health-related problems. In essence, there is no need to take supplements for these vitamins as the body doesn’t need them everyday. When not in use, it is merely stored inside the liver.
The main benefit of Vitamin A is to enhance ones vision. Aside from that, this vitamin also promotes bones and teeth development. Vitamin A, more particularly beta cartone, is also known to protect a person against certain types of cancer. Foods rich in Vitamin A include carrots, potatoes, pumpkins, milk, and other dairy products.
Vitamin D is the one believed to come from sunlight. And much of that is because Vitamin D is synthesized the moment sunlight strikes the skin. This is the kind of vitamin that promotes the hardening of teeth and bones, by increasing the body’s absorption of calcium. Fish oils, margarines, and egg yolks are other good sources of Vitamin D.
Vitamin E is the vitamin that prevents cell damage. Vitamin E is a known anti-oxidant and it can trigger cell renewal. This is the vitamin commonly used in skin and aging solutions. It is also tasked to protect two other vitamins, Vitamins A and C, as well as other fatty acids. Vitamin E can be found in nuts, whole grain products, wheat germ, and liver.
Vitamin K is the one responsible for proper blood clotting. This is the one referred to as the vitamins for the blood. Food rich in Vitamin K are green leafy vegetables and cod liver oil. Deficiency of Vitamin K in body may cause excessive bleeding.
These are what fat-soluble vitamins do for your body. While excessive contents of these vitamins are harmful, lacking them altogether is equally harmful. Make sure that your body has enough of these vitamins to keep yourself in the peak of health at all times.