summary of vitamins

7/31/2019 Summary of Vitamins

1/9

Advanced

AnalyticalChemistry

Summary of Vitamins

Hina Aslam

In this assignment a short summary of vitamins is given, which includes a brief

introduction, role, sources, deficiency, causes of deficiency, supplementation

and side effects of over dose of vitamins.


2/9

1

Table of contents:

Vitamin A ... 2 Vitamin B12 .. 3 Vitamin B complex .. 4 Vitamin C ... 5 Vitamin D ........ 6 Vitamin E ....... 7 Vitamin K... 8


3/9

2

Vitamin A:

Vitamin A is one of four fat soluble vitamins necessary for good health. There are two basis forms of vitamin A. Retinoids, the active type, are contained in

animal sources. Precursor forms of vitamin (carotenoid) are found in orange and leafy

green produce such as sweet potatoes, carrots, collard greens, spinach, winter squash,

kale and turnip green.

Vitamin A serves an important role as an antioxidant by helping to prevent free radicalsfrom causing cellular damage. Adequate level is necessary for good eye sight and proper

night vision. It is also necessary for proper function of immune, skeletal, respiratory,

reproductive and integumentary system. Vitamin A in the form of carotenoids may

decrease the risk of certain cancer, heart attacks and certain strokes. The immune is also

strengthened.

Symptoms of deficiency may include, but are not limited to, loss of appetite, poorimmune function causing frequent infections (especially respiratory), hair loss, rashes,

dry skin and eyes, visual difficulties including night blindness, poor growth and fatigue.

Deficiencies are more common in poor who are malnourished, including alcoholics, thechronically ill, and those with impaired fat absorption. People taking some medications,

including birth control pills, methotrexate, cholestyramine, colestipol, and drugs that act

to sequester bile will also need larger amounts. Those who are recovering from surgery or

other injuries, having chronic diarrhea, type I diabetes, cystic fibrosis and kidney or liver

disease may also benefit from a higher than average dose.

Supplements may contain either the active or precursor form of vitamin A. The activeform may be more desirable for those who may have some difficulty in converting the

carotenoid into the active vitamin.

Adults should not take more than 25,000 IU (5,000 RE) per day of vitamin A in its activeform. The best way to get vitamin is in the natural food form.

Over dose can occur when taking megadoses of the active form of vitamin A. symptommay include dry lips and skin, bone and joint pain, liver and spleen enlargement,

diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, blurry and double vision, confusion, irritability, fatigue

and bulging fontanel in infants. Very high level of carotenoids may cause and orange

discoloration of the skin which is harmless and transient.

Vitamin A reserves of the body are depleted by a number of substances, includingalcohol, barbiturates, caffeine, cortisone, tobacco, and very high level of vitamin E.


4/9

3

Vitamin B12:

Cobalamin, also known as B12, is a member of the water-soluble family of B vitamins. It is a key factor in the bodys proper use of iron and the formation of red blood cells. The

nervous system also relies on an adequate supply of cobalamin to function appropriately,

because it is essential in creation and maintenance of myelin sheath that lines nerve cells.

Role of cobalamin include work with pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and folic acid to reduce

harmful homo cysteine level, participating in the metabolization of food, and keeping the

immune system operating smoothly.

Usable cobalamin is only found naturally in animal source food. Clams and beef leverhave very high cobalamin levels. Chicken liver, beef, lamb, tuna, flounder, liverwurst,

eggs and dairy products are also good sources.

Symptoms of cobalamin deficiency are severe fatigue, effects on nervous system,weakness, numbness, tingling of limbs, memory loss, confusion, delusion, poor balance

and reflexes, hearing difficulties and even dementia. Severe deficiency may appear

similar to multiple sclerosis, nausea and diarrhea. Long term deficiencies of cobalamin

allow homocysteine levels to build up. Large amount of homocysteine include heart

disease and possibly brain toxicity.

Primary group at risk for deficiency are vegans. Malabsorptive disease and stomachsurgery can also predispose to a deficiency. People having megaloblastic anemia,

premicious anemia, infections, burns, some types of cancer, recent surgery, illness that

cause decay or loss of strength, or high amount of stress may need more than the RDA

amount of B12 and other B vitamin. Asthma, atherosclerosis, bursitis, male infertility, Crohns disease, depression, diabetes,

high cholesterol, osteoporosis and vitiligo can be improved using cobalamin supplements.

Very high doses of cobalamin may sometimes cause acne. People who are sensitive tocobalamin or cobalt should not take cobalamin supplements. Symptoms of

hypersensitivity are swelling, itching and shock. Cobalamin should be avoided by those

having Lebers disease (hereditary optic nerve atrophy).

Improved absoption occurs when it is taken with other B vitamin or calcium. Use ofnicotine products or excessive alcohol can deplete B12.


5/9

4

Vitamin B complex:

Vitamin B complex consists of 12 related water-soluble substances. Eight are consideredessential vitamin because they need to be included in the diet. Four are not essentialbecause the body can synthesize them.

B1 (thiamin) B2 (riboflavin) B3 (niacin) B5 (pantothenic acid)

B6 (pyridoxine) B7 (biotin) B9 (folic acid) B12 (cobalamin)

Four unnumbered components of the B complex that can be synthesized by the body are

choline, inositol, PABA, and lipoic acid.

Some B vitamins prevent certain birth defects, maintain healthy red blood cells, supportimmune function, regulate cell growth, aid in hormone production and may have a role in

preventing certain types of cancer. They also help maintain healthy skin, hair and nails.

Many foods, fresh meat and dairy products are the best sources of most of B vitamin.Cobalamin is only found naturally in animal source foods. Dark green leafy vegetables

are an excellent source of folic acid.

Poor vitamin B levels will cause profound fatigue, assortment of neurologicmanifestation, including weakness, poor balance, confusion, depression, irritability,

memory loss, nervousness, tingling of limbs, loss of coordination, sleeping disturbances,

nausea, poor appetite, frequent infection and skin lesions.

Poeple are at high risk for deficiency if they have poor nutritional sources of B vitamin,taking medication, or conditions that impair absorption. Lack of niacin and thiamine

occurs in alcoholics, strict vegans, and people with very low nutrition. A significant

depletion causes a condition called beriberi, which can cause weakness, leg spasms, poor

appetite, and loss of coordination. Risk factor may be smoking, excess use of alcohol,

surgical removal of digestive tract and advanced age.

Supplements are available in injectable and oral form. Injectable forms are more useful.Strict vegetarians will need to incorporate a supplemental source of B12 in their diets.

Cobalamin supplementation can improve male fertility, depression, dementia, and mentalimpairment. Folic acid may reduce the odds of cervical or colon cancer in certain groups.

Large doses of water-soluble vitamins can be taken with no ill effects since excessiveamounts are readily excreted. However, if niacin is taken at daily doses of over 500 mg itmay also cause liver inflammation, flushing, headaches lowering of blood pressure and

cause difficulty in controlling blood sugar in diabetics. Those with ulcers could be

adversely affected. High doses of pyridoxine may cause liver inflammation or permanent

nerve damage. Large doses of riboflavin result in very bright yellow urine.

Antibiotics potentially decrease the level of some B vitamins by killing the digestive tractbacteria that produce them.


6/9

5

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is naturally produced in fruits and vegetables. It is absorbedby the intestine and is water soluble. Adrenal glands, pituitary gland, thymus, retina,

brain, spleen, lungs, liver, thyroids, testicles, lymph nodes, kidney and pancreas all

contain much higher levels of vitamin C than are found in circulating blood.

Vitamin C is critical component of both disease prevention and of basic body buildingprocesses. The therapeutic effect of vitamin C include allergy and asthma relief,

improved lung function, cancer prevention, cataract prevention, collagen production,

diabetes control, gallbladder disease prevention, immune system booster,

neurotransmitter building, adrenal hormone manufacturer, treat common cold and heart

disease, i.e., coronary artery disease.

Source of vitamin C are many fruits, vegetables, citrus fruits, barriers, raw red peppers,guava, orange fruits, black currants, rose hips, broccoli, tomatoes, strawberries, papaya,

lemons, kiwis, Brussels and sprouts. Fresh, raw fruits and vegetables contain the highest

levels of the vitamin.

Low vitamin C level has been associated with high blood pressure, increased heart attackrisk, increased risk for developing cataract, and higher risk for developing certain type of

cancer (i.e., prostate, stomach, colon, oral and lung). Deficiency leads to scurvy.

Symptoms of scurvy include weakness, bleeding, tooth loss, bleeding gums, bruising and

joint pain. Less serious vitamin C depletion can have more subtle effects such as weight

loss, fatigue, weakened immune system, bruises and slow healing of wounds.

Individual at risk for vitamin C depletion such as smokers, women who take birth controlpills and those with unhealthy dietary habits may benefit from a daily supplement.

Diabetics, people having high blood pressure, smokers, elderly men, high stress level and

women who take estrogen may have low vitamin C level, because these conditions

deplete vitamin C. Hemodialysis cause patients with kidney disease to loss as 66 mg per

session.

Supplements are available in pills, capsules, powders, and liquids. Vitamin C is added tosome skin creams, throat lozenges, energy drinks, energy bars and to some processed

food.

Over dose of vitamin C can cause nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes andexcessive urination. Person with a history of kidney disease or kidney stones should

never take dosage above 200 mg daily.

Vitamin C increases iron absorption. Estrogen decreases absorption of vitamin C. largedose of vitamin C can cause a false-positive result in tests for diabetes.


7/9

6

Vitamin D:

Vitamin D, also known as calciferol, is essential for strong teeth and bones. Vitamin D is important for the maintenance of proper bone density, to many calcium-

driven neurologic and cellular functions, and normal growth and development. It also

assists the immune system by playing a part in the production of a type of white blood

cell called monocyte. White blood cells are infection fighters. It also has a part in cancer

prevention.

Natural source of vitamin D is sunlight. Approximately ten minutes per day in the sun inclear summer will produce adequate amount. In the winter, it may require as much as two

hours. It is fat soluble, so extra amount can be stored in the liver and fatty tissue for

future use. It is found naturally in fish liver oils, butter, eggs, fortified and cereals in the

form of vitamin D2.

Deficiency of vitamin D can cause hearing loss. A topical form of vitamin D can behelpful in the treatment of plaque-type psoriasis. In adults, a mild deficiency of vitamin D

may be manifested as loss of appetite and weight, difficulty sleeping and diarrhea.

Deficiency may be due to poor sun exposure, poor intake, poor absorption, cysticfibrosis, removal of portion of digestive tract, surgery, major injuries, burn, high level of

stress and chronic wasting illnesses.

Osteoporosis can be treated by vitamin D along with calcium. Osteomalacia (softening ofbones in adults) and rickets (syndrome in children causing bowed legs and joint

deformities) are also effectively prevented and treated through adequate vitamin D

supplementation. Vitamin D cannot be used to treat alcoholism, acne, arthritis, cystic fibrosis or herpes.

People who are on medication for arthritis, asthma, allergies, auto-immune conditions,

high cholesterol, epilepsy or other seizure problem should consult health care

practitioner. Individuals with hypercalcemia, sarcoidosis, hypoparathyroidism, kidney

disease, arteriosclerosis and heart disease should avoid vitamin D supplements.

Overdose can cause toxicity. Symptoms are largely those of hypercalcemia, high bloodpressure, headaches, weakness, fatigue, heart arrhythmia, loss of appetite, nausea,

vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, irritability, seizures, kidney damage, poor

growth, premature hardening of arteries and pain in the abdomen, muscles and bones.

Minor side effects may include poor appetite, constipation, dry mouth, increased thirst,metallic taste or fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, or confusion.

The absorption of vitamin D is improved by calcium, choline, fats, phosphorous, andvitamin A and C. overuse of mineral oil, olestra, and stimulant laxatives may also deplete

vitamin D.


8/9

7

Vitamin E:

Vitamin E is a group of fat soluble compounds known as tocopherols (i.e., alphatocopherol and gamma tocopherol). It is absorbed by the gastrointestinal system and

stored in tissues and organs throughout the body.

Vitamin E is necessary for optimal immune system functioning, healthy eyes, goodmemory and cell protection throughout the body. Vitamin E is known antioxidant and it

reduce the risk of gastrointestinal, cervical, prostate, lungs and possibly breast cancer. It

is used to slow disease progression in HIV-positive patients. It is also used to treat

Alzheimers disease.

Vitamin E can be used for liver disease treatment, diabetes treatment, pain relief,Parkinson disease prevention, tardive dyskinesia treatment, porphyria treatment, heart

disease prevention, skin care because it is thought to increase an individuals tolerance toUV rays when taken as a supplement in conjunction with vitamin C. it has benefits in

reducing swelling and relieving discomfort in a wound, decrease in hot flashes, for

muscular maintenance and repair, treatment of fertility.

Vitamin E rich foods include nuts, cereals, beans, eggs, cold-pressed oils and assortedfruits and vegetables. Foods rich in vitamin E include wheat germ oil, wheat germ cereal,

peanuts, soybeans, corn oil, avocado and olive oil. Grapes, peaches, broccoli, Brussels

sprouts, eggs, tomatoes and blackberries are also good source of vitamin E. Fresh, raw

foods contain highest level of vitamin E.

Vitamin E deficiency can cause fatigue, concentration problems, weakened immunesystem, anemia and low thyroid level. It may also cause vision problem and irritability.Low serum levels have also been linked to major depression.

Certain health conditions may cause vitamin E depletion, including liver disease, celiacdisease and cystic fibrosis. Person frequently taking iron supplements through

intravenous infusion may have vitamin E deficiency.

Vitamin E supplement are also available in a variety of different forms, including pills,capsules, powder, and liquids for oral ingestion. For topical use, vitamin E is available in

ointments, creams, lotions, and oils.

Over dose of vitamin E can cause nausea, diarrhea, headache, abdominal pain, bleeding,high blood pressure, fatigue and weakened immune system functions. Patients with

rheumatic heart disease, iron deficiency anemia, hypertension, or thyroid dysfunction

should consult health care provider before taking supplements of vitamin E.

Individual who take anticoagulant or anticonvulsant medications should consult theirhealth care provider before starting vitamin E supplementation. Large doses of vitamin A

can decrease the absorption of vitamin E. Alcohol and mineral oil can also reduce

vitamin E absorption.


9/9

8

Vitamin K:

Vitamin K originates from the German term koajulation. It is also known asantihemorrhagic factor and it is one of the four fat-soluble vitamins necessary for good

health.

The primary and best known purpose of vitamin K is support of the process of bloodclotting. It also plays a role in bone health, and may help to prevent osteoporosis.The

most common use of vitamin K is to supplement babies at birth, thus preventing

hemorrhagic disease of the newborn.

Vitamin K is also used to treat bleeding from the esophagus and other complications ofcirrhosis, a disease of the liver. Topical formulations of vitamin K are used to reduce

spider veins on the face and legs. Vitamin K3 in particular may be useful as an adjuvant

treatment for ovarian cancer. Source of vitamin K is dark green leafy vegetables. In the form of K 1. Seaweed is packed

with it, and beef liver, cauliflower, eggs and strawberries are rich source as well. It is

fairly heat stable. Some of the supply for body is synthesized as vitamin K 2 by the good

bacteria in the intestine.

Deficiency of vitamin K is uncommon in general population but is of particular concernin neonates, who are born with low level of vitamin K. the primary sign of deficiency at

any stage is bleeding and poor growth may also be observed in children. Chronically low

level of vitamin K is correlated with higher risk of hip fracture in older person.

Vitamin K deficiency may occur in certain populations including those on medication ofcertain diseases, alcoholics, and people with disease of gastrointestinal tract that impairabsorption. Conditions that may be problematic include Crohns disease, chronic

diarrhea, sprue, and ulcerative colitis.

Allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, itching, and flushing, to vitamin K supplementsmay occur, although they are rare. Symptoms may include flushed skin, nausea, rash and

itching. Infants receiving vitamin K injections occasionally suffer hemolytic anemia or

high bilirubin levels, noticeable from the yellow cast of the skin. Liver and brain

impairment are also possible in severe cases.

Efficiency of vitamin K is decreased by long term use of antacids and certainanticoagulants. Efficiency is deceased by dactinomycin and sucralfate. Absorption is

decreased by cholestyramine and colestipol. Causes of deficiency include long term use

of mineral oil, quinidine, and sulfa drugs. Anticonvulsants also cause depletion of

vitamin K.

summary of vitamins

Documents