Role and importance of vitamins, minerals and microelements in human nutrition.
Micronutrients are nutrients required in small amounts.
General Functions of Vitamins:
- 1. Regulators and catalysts for oxidation and reduction processes in the body.
- 2. Participate in biosynthesis of co-enzymes and prosthetic groups of proteins.
- 3. Enhance immunological reactivity and resistance to environmental factors.
- 4. Promote blood formation and support liver and endocrine functions.
- 5. Required for growth and repair of cells and tissues.
- 6. Closely linked to other nutrients (e.g., protein deficiency may lead to vitamin deficiency; lack of fat affects carotenoid → Vitamin A conversion).
They do not provide energy, but they allow the body to use energy from macronutrients.
Vitamin B12 is an exception: it can be stored in the liver for several years, which is why B12 deficiency usually develops more slowly than deficiencies of other B vitamins.
- Vitamin C increases Iron absorption
- Vitamin D works with Calcium and Phosphorus
- Selenium + Vitamin E = antioxidant partnership
- Xerophthalmia is a condition caused by vitamin A deficiency, leading to dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea and absence of tear production. It can result in night blindness and, in severe cases, corneal ulcers or permanent blindness.
Retinol is the active form of vitamin A found in animal sources, ready for use by the body.
Beta-carotene is a provitamin A from plant sources that the body converts into retinol as needed.
D) Health Importance
- Support growth and development
- Preserve immune function and tissue healing
- Prevent metabolic, bone, blood, and neurological diseases