Fat vs Water Soluble Vitamins

Vitamins A, D, E, and K are called the fat-soluble vitamins because they are dissolved in fats. They are absorbed by fat globules that travel through the small intestines and distributed through the body in the bloodstream. Because fat-soluble vitamins are not excreted by the body easily, they can accumulate to toxic levels if too much is taken.

Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, Folate, B12, Biotin, Pantothenic acid, and Vitamin C are water-soluble vitamins. Water-soluble vitamins are carried to the body’s tissues but are not stored in the body. They are found in plant and animal foods or dietary supplements and must be taken daily.

Vitamin Functions:

• Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps ensure that the body absorbs and retains calcium and phosphorus, both critical for building bone. The main source of Vitamin D is from the sun.
• Folate: One of the B-vitamins and is needed to make red and white blood cells in the bone marrow and  convert carbohydrates into energy.
• Vitamin A: helps form and maintain healthy teeth, bones, soft tissue, mucous membranes, and skin.
• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that promotes healthy teeth and gums. It helps the body absorb iron and maintain healthy tissue. It also promotes wound healing.
• Pantothenic acid: An essential vitamin for processing food. It also helps produce hormones and cholesterol.

Vitamin Deficiency

Research suggests low or decreased levels of vitamins in the body can result in some of the following:

• Deteriorating bone density and osteoporosis
• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Reduced nerve function
• Low iron count (anemia)
• Improper brain function linked to mood swings, depression, anxiety etc.
• Problems with fertility
• Unhealthy weight gain
• Loss of muscle mass and strength