Classification of Vitamins

Classification of Vitamins

Vitamins differ from each other in physiological function, chemical structure, and distribution foods. Plants synthesize all vitamins they require and therefore vegetables and fruits are rich sources of vitamins. They are broadly divided into two categories, on the basis of solubility in fats or water.

Fat Soluble Vitamins

Fat – soluble vitamins are soluble in fats and fat solvents. They are insoluble in water. So these vitamins are utilized only if there is enough fat in the body.

1. Vitamin A

Vitamin A was discovered in 1909 and its chemical name is retinol. The vitamin A compounds include retinol, retinal and retinoic acid. It has a specific function in the retina of the eye. Vitamin A occurs only in foods of animal origin. Vitamin A activity is possessed by carotenoids found in plants. Hence carotenoids are called provitamin A.

Functions

·         It provides the required stimulation for vision in the retina and is essential for maintaining normal vision.

·         It helps in maintaining healthy skin and epithelial tissues.

·         It is important for proper growth of bones.

·         It helps in normal foetus development.

·         It protects the mucous membrane of the digestive, respiratory and urinary tracts against infection.

Food Sources of Vitamin A

Vitamin A is present as retinol in animal sources such as egg yolk, fish (halibut, shark, cod), liver and cod liver oils. In plants, it is found in the form of carotene which gets converted to vitamin A in the body. Carrot, beetroot, turnip, papaya, mango, pumpkin, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, drumsticks, whole milk, butter, ghee etc., are very good sources of carotene.

Symptoms of Vitamin A deficiency

1.      Night blindness: This is also called as Nyctalopia. Initially there is itching, burning and inflammation of eyelids and the person gradually loses vision to see in the dim light.

2.      Keratomalacia: This occurs due to poor intake or poor absorption of vitamin A. When conjunctival xerosis is not treated it may develop into a condition known as keratomalacia. Cornea becomes dull.

3.      Xeropthalmia: This occurs in which the eyes become thickened, wrinkled and extremely dry followed by progressive cloudiness. This is due to keratinisation of the epithelial cells over the cornea. This condition is extremely common among all age groups in India and other developing countries where the vitamin A intake is low.

4.      Bitot’s spot: Silver grey foamy deposits on the delicate membranes covering the whites of the eyes. Softening of the corneas may lead to corneal infection, perforation and degenerative tissue changes, which may result in blindness.

5.      Skin becomes rough, dry and scaly. This condition is known as toad’s skin.

2. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is otherwise known as ‘sunshine vitamin’ as it can be synthesized from sunlight by our body. Hence, vitamin D requirements of Indians are considered to be met entirely by exposure to sunlight. In the absence of exposure to sunlight a daily intake of 400 IU vitamin D is suggested. 

Vitamin D is produced under the skin after exposure to ultraviolet rays. Vitamin D is now considered as a pro hormone rather than a vitamin and is required for Calcium absorption and bone formation.

Functions

·         It helps in the formation of bones and teeth.

·         It also improves the calcification of bones.

·         It helps to increase the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.

·         It helps in increase of citrate content in bones and blood.

Food Sources of Vitamin D:

Sunlight: Exposure of skin to sunlight brings about synthesis of vitamin D from 7 dehydrocholesterol.

Food products: Cod liver oil, liver, salmon and herring fish, fortified milk, egg yolk, butter, cheese, ghee, cream, fortified milk, etc., are the best sources of Vitamin D.

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency:

Symptoms in children Rickets:

When children’s bodies don’t get enough vitamin D, they cannot absorb enough calcium and phosphorus to mineralize and harden the bones and teeth. If calcium and phosphorus are  not deposited enough to form strong bones, results it in the leg bones become bent and deformed. 

Their bones become too weak to support their weight and their legs bow under the pressure and may exhibit the following symptoms:

·         Bow legs (legs bow outwards).

·         Knock-knock knees (legs bow inwards with knees touching each other).

·         Enlarged joints (The ends of long bones enlarge), Pigeon’s Chest (ribs become hollow and bulge out).

·         Their teeth will become soft and irregular shaped.

·         Head becomes abnormally large and square shaped with bulging sides.

Symptoms in Adults:

Osteomalacia:

·         Adults get osteomalacia. In this disease, the bones become soft, fragile and easily bendable and are more prone to multiple fractures.

·         Cramps are common.

·         Spinal cord, thorax, limbs and pelvis may be deformed and back may be hunched. Person may suffer from lower back pain.

Symptoms in Oldage

Osteoporosis: It is a calcium related health problem and occurs frequently in old people. 

This disease is characterized by having light porous and spongy bones that break very easily. Severe bone pain is reported which is relieved by immobilization. Fractures occur due to brittle bones which heal off normally.

3. Vitamin E

Vitamin E protects cell membranes and other fat-soluble parts of the body. They are called as tocopherol. This word is derived from ‘tocos’ meaning child birth, and ‘phenos’ meaning to bear and ‘ol’ means alcohol. The vitamin is stored in all the tissues and the tissue stores can provide protection against the deficiency for long periods.

Functions

·         Vitamin E is an important antioxidant

·         Promotes normal growth and development

·         Promotes normal red blood cell formation

·         Acts as anti blood clotting agent

·         helps in absorption of vitamin A and vitamin C.

·         Vitamin E dilates the capillaries and enables the blood to flow freely into blood deficient muscle tissue, thus strengthening both the tissues and the nerves supplying them.

·         reduces the risk of heart diseases

Food Sources of Vitamin E

The principle source of vitamin E in diet is vegetable oils - Corn, and peanut oil. Nuts and seeds - Almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, saffiower, soya bean oils, walnuts, margarine, meat and fish, whole grains, wheat germ, spinach, lettuce, dark green leafy vegetables, black berries, apple, pears, legumes, eggs and milk are good sources of vitamin E. Human milk has more vitamin E than cow’s milk and is sufficient for infants.

Symptoms of Vitamin E deficiency

·         Anaemia in premature infants.

·         Increased risk of oxidative damage to body tissues.

·         Vitamin E deficiency may lead to heart and lung disease and brain stroke.

·         Frequent blood clots may occur which in turn play a role in the production of varicose veins.

4. Vitamin K

Vitamin K is called coagulation vitamin. It is essential for the production of a type of protein called prothrombin and other factors involved in the blood- clotting mechanism. Prothrombin levels in the blood determine the rate at which the blood will clot. For blood to clot, fibrinogen a soluble protein must be converted into fibrin. Thrombin catalyses the proteolysis of fibrinogen to yield fibrin.

Functions

·         Helps in clotting of blood.

·         Participates in bone formation and remodeling(synthesisofosteocalcin).

·         It isnecessary for theformation obone matrix and mineral deposition.

·         Vitamin K is essential for the prevention of internal bleeding and haemorrhages.

·         It is important for the normal functioning of the liver.

·         It is involved in energy producing activities of the tissues and nervous system.

Food Sources of Vitamin K

The concentration of vitamin K in foods is highest in dark green leafy vegetables, especially spinach. It is also found in soyabean, yoghurt, wheat, oats, milk, meat, lettuce, cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli and liver.

Symptoms of Vitamin K deficiency

·         Leads to increased tendency to hemorrhages.

·         Defective blood clotting.

·         Bleeding occurs in nose.

·         Prothrombin levels are reduced.

Water Soluble Vitamins

Water soluble vitamins are soluble in water and so they cannot be stored in the body. Therefore, a day-to-day supply of these vitamins is essential.

The B vitamins have important metabolic roles as coenzyme partners with cell enzymes that control energy metabolism and build tissue. Eight vitamins are there in this group.

1. Vitamin B₁ (Thiamine)

Thiamine  acts  as  a  catalyst  in the oxidation process which prepares glucose in the body to provide energy. Vitamin B₁ is a vital coenzyme which changes the three sources of energy – fats, carbohydrates and proteins into energy (glucose). So, without B₁ the body cannot use the food to make energy. It is known as ‘Appetite vitamin’ and makes a person feel hungry.

Functions:

·         Thiamine helps increase hunger. Thus aids normal growth.

·         Thiamine controls mental andnervous fatigue, irritability and restlessness.

·         Promotes growth, protects the heart muscle and stimulates brain action.

·         The vitamin improves peristalsis and helps to prevent constipation.

·         Improves circulation of blood and promotes a healthy skin.

Food Sources of Thiamine

Whole grain cereals, wheat, rice, oats, yeast, sunflower seeds, peanuts, Bengal gram, capsicum, turnip, beet, fish, liver, legumes, nuts, wheat germ, baked beans, whole grains enriched breads and cereals, egg etc.,

Symptoms of thiamine deficiency

·         Loss of appetite, poor digestion.

·         Muscular weakness and feeling tired

·         Insomnia, mental depression,

·         Loss of weight, leg cramps

·         Digestive disorder

·         Slow heart beat and

·         Gastrointestinal problems

Deficiency Diseases

Thiamine deficiency causes beriberi and there are three kinds of Beriberi

1.      Dry Beriberi affects the nervous system, tingling and loss of sensation which may cause limb paralysis and degeneration of nervous tissues. There is difficulty in walking, foot and wrist drop.

2.      Wet Beriberi affects the heart. There is difficulty in breathing. It enlarges the heart causing painful palpitations, disfunctioning of heart and heart attack.

3.      Infantile Beri occurs mostly in infants who cry without sound. Infants has difficulty in breathing, body turn blue and may die within 24-28 hrs.

It also leads to poor functioning of gastrointestinal tract and poor appetite.

2. Vitamin B₂ (Riboflavin)

Riboflavin is water soluble and relatively heat stable. It is easily absorbed from the intestine and the excess is excreted through urine. It is essential for the health of skin and for normal vision.

Functions

·         Riboflavin plays an important role in the health of the eyes and alleviates eye strain and is essential for proper vision and healthy sight.

·         Riboflavin assists production of Red blood cells (RBC).

·         It strengthens mucous lining of mouth, lips and tongue.

·         It is required for normal growth and wound healing.

·         Riboflavin is needed in every cell of the body. It helps cells to use

·         oxygen so that the body can convert sources of energy into glucose.

Food Sources of Riboflavin:

Yeast, milk, curd, cheese, eggs, chicken, liver, pork, spinach, carrot leaves, beets, brown rice, sprouts, beans, Fruits like Apricots, papaya, custard apple. Nuts like Almond and walnut are rich sources of riboflavin. Large amounts are found in dairy products, eggs and meats. Green leafy vegetables and enriched grains are moderate sources of Riboflavin.

Symptoms of Riboflavin deficiency

·         Cracks and redness at corners of mouth – Cheilosis.

·         Painful, smooth, purplish red tongue - Glossitis.

·         Sore throat.

·         Inflamed eyes and eyelids, sensitivity to light.

·         Itching and burning eyes.

·         Intolerance to bright light, dim vision, water in eyes.

·         Skin rashes and

·         Digestive disturbances.

3. Vitamin B₃ (Niacin)

Niacin is a water soluble vitamin which is also known as vitamin PP (pellagra preventive factor) Niacin exists in two forms: nicotinic acid and nicotinamide.

Functions

·         Important for proper blood circulation and healthy functioning of the nervous system.

·         Promotes the health of digestive track.

·         It repairs DNA.

·         It regulates blood sugar levels.

·         It lowers cholesterol levels.

·         It is essential for normal functioning of skin and nerve system.

Food Sources of Niacin

Liver, chicken, meats, prawns, fish, legumes, cereal, mushroom, peanuts, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, dates, peas, groundnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, avocado are rich in Niacin.

Symptoms of Niacin deficiency

·         A mild deficiency of niacin may result in a coated tongue, sores in the mouth, irritability, nervousness, skin lesions, diarrhoea, forgetfulness, insomnia and headache.

·         Pellegra - Niacin deficiency leads to Pellagra-a disease of 3D’s- dermatitis, diarrhoea and dementia followed by death (if not treated).

·         Dermatitis - This includes rough, scaly pigmented skin with rash on skin exposed to sunlight. Swollen mouth on skin exposed to sunlight.

·         Diarrhoea - loose stools and vomiting.

·         Dementia - nerve damage, numbness in limbs, tingling in hands and feet. Poor muscle  coordination, disorientation and loss of memory.

4. Vitamin B₆ (Pyridoxine)

Pyridoxine is a colourless compound soluble in water and alcohol. It is well absorbed in the upper segment of the small intestine. It is stored in muscle but found in tissues throughout the body.

Functions

Production of red blood cells.

·         It is readily absorbed from intestines.

·         Improves immunity.

·         Improves nervous system functions.

·         Reduce muscle spasms, cramps and numbness.

·         Maintains proper balance of sodium and phosphorous in the body.

Food sources of Pyridoxine: Good food sources include whole grains, legumes, bananas, potato, liver, kidney and other meats, fortified breads and cereals. Sunflower seeds, soya beans, walnuts and yeast are the richest sources of pyridoxine among plant foods.

Symptoms of Pyridoxine deficiency

·         Nervousness, Insomnia, Anaemia, oedema, mental depression.

·         Loss of muscle control, muscle weakness, tooth decay.

·         Arm and leg cramps,

·         Water retention,

·         Skin lesions and skin disorder.

5. Vitamin B₉ (Folic Acid)

Vitamin B₉ includes both folate and folic acid and is important for several functions

in the body. It is important for women who are pregnant to consume enough folic acid.

Functions of folic acid: The different functions of folate include:

·         Folic acid helps the body to convert carbohydrates into glucose, which is used to provide energy.

·         Folic acid helps in building of antibodies which prevent and heal infections.

·         It helps in normal functioning of the nervous system and maintains the mental and emotional health.

·         It helps in production of body’s generic material - DNA and RNA.

Food sources of Folic acid: The rich sources of folate are fish, mutton, liver, egg, chicken, green leafy vegetables, pulses, Lentils, beans, asparagus, lettuce, Parsley, avocado, sunflower seeds, beets, broccoli, spinach, orange juice, tofu, fish, meat, fortified cereals, milk, cheese, eggs, oysters, crab etc.,

Symptoms of folic acid deficiency

·         A recent study connected folic acid deficiency with autism.

·         Loss of memory, severe and irreversible damage to nervous system and brain.

·         Pernicious anaemia which is an immune system disease.

·         Deficiency of folic acid causes megaloblastic anaemia.

6. Vitamin B₁₂ (Cyanocobalamin)

Thevitaminisnamedascyanocobalamin

because of the presence of cobalt and cyanide in its structure. It can be absorbed in the body only in the presence of intrinsic factor (IF).

Functions

·         It is essential for the production and regeneration of red blood cells.

·         It improves concentration, memory and balance.

·         It synthesises and regulates DNA.

·         It plays an important role in normal functioning of brain and nervous system.

·         It also helps to absorb folic acid.

Food Sources of Cyanocobalamin

Cyanocobalamin is synthesized by bacteria and is found in foods of animal origin. Liver is the richest source of cyanocobalamin. Meat, chicken, oysters, eggs, fish, milk, curd, cheese are good sources of Vitamin B₁₂.

Symptoms of Cyanocobalamin deficiency:

·         Loss of memory

·         Fatigue

·         Anemia

·         Severe and irreversible damage to the nervous system and brain

·         Pernicious anaemia is caused due to its deficiency in the body which is an immune system disease.

7. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid. It is an antioxidant and water soluble vitamin. It is destroyed by light, heat and when exposed to air and metals. During cooking much of it is destroyed. Iron and copper act as catalysts and cooking in these vessels increases the loss of vitamin C. When the vegetables are cut into fine pieces more enzymes is released and it causes more loss. Vitamin C is essential in cholesterol metabolism.

Functions

·         It is helpful in the formation of collagen the cementing material between cells that holds them together.

·         Vitamin C builds up natural body defence and helps provide immunity to the body.

·         It helps the body to absorb more iron from plant sources.

·         It aids in the healing of wounds.

·         It helps to keep gums healthy.

·         It helps body to fight infections.

·         Improves bone formation.

·         It prevents the deposition of cholesterol on the walls of the arteries and prevent heart diseases.

Food Sources of Vitamin C: Amla, kiwi, strawberry, raspberry, grapes, berries, guava, citrus fruits like sweet lime, lemon, oranges, green leafy vegetables, spinach, hot chillies, turnip greens, broccoli, red bell pepper, tomato juice, raw tomato, sweet potato etc.,

Symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency

·         Gums swell and bleed and become purple and spongy. This is known as pyorrhoea. Foul smell emits from the mouth.

·         Deficiency can lead to scurvy in which a slight injury produces excessive bleeding and large hemorrhages are seen under the skin.

·         There is tenderness, swelling and pain in the limbs.

·         Reduced immunity causes simple infections like common cold, flu- viral, etc.,

·         Irritability, aneamia, poor wound healing and Diarrhoea.

·         Gastrointestinal discomfort.

·         Weight loss, fatigue and joint pain.