Introduction

This section focuses on one of two micronutrient categories: vitamins. Vitamins are essential to human nutrition. They are organic, and are found in small amounts in plant and animal sources. With the exception of a few B vitamins and an occasional biochemical conversion from a precursor, we must get them by eating the plants and animals that contain them.


Image by Farhang 7aji Hamid. This image is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

 

Following successful completion of this lesson, students will be able to:

  • List the main functions and food sources of each major vitamin. Distinguish between fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins.
  • Explain the health risks of inadequate vitamin intake.
  • Summarize the potential for toxicity regarding overuse of fat-soluble vitamins and water-soluble vitamins.

 

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