Vitamins: A large class of low molecular weight organic compounds essential for maintaining normal physiological functions and specific metabolic reactions within cells. They are essential substances for the growth, development, and reproduction of the body.
The human body is the most complex chemical plant in the world, constantly undergoing various biochemical reactions, and its reaction activity is closely related to the catalytic action of enzymes. Vitamins are essential substances for normal metabolism in the body, participating in various functions of the body. Vitamins are coenzymes of enzymes or molecules that make up coenzymes.
Vitamins are a big family
Vitamin B and vitamin C are key nutrients that convert food into energy. The vitamin B family is a participant in methylation activities, vitamin D is an immune regulator, and so on. Vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin D are important antioxidants in the body.
Classification of vitamins
Fat soluble vitamins: insoluble in water, soluble in fat and organic solvents. Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, etc
Water soluble vitamins: soluble in water. Vitamin B and Vitamin C.
Reasons for Vitamin Deficiency
The reasons for insufficient or deficient vitamins in the human body include: ① Insufficient intake of vitamins and unreasonable dietary adjustments. ② Malabsorption is more common in patients with digestive system diseases Imbalance of gut microbiota. ④ Physiological needs increase. ⑤ Improper cooking and storage methods of food can cause damage and loss of vitamins.
Vitamins have the following four characteristics
Exogenous: Vitamins are generally not synthesized in the body, or synthesized in small amounts that cannot meet the body's needs and must be provided by food.
Regulatory: Vitamins must be able to regulate human metabolism or energy conversion.
Trace amount: The amount required by the human body is very small, usually calculated in mg or ug, but it is essential and can play a huge role.
Specificity: If there is a long-term deficiency of a certain vitamin, it will cause a certain functional impairment and result in a specific disease.
