Introduction to the Fat-Soluble Vitamins
The fat-soluble vitamins are vitamins A, D, E, and K. Fat-soluble vitamins are found in the liver and the fatty tissues of the body where they are stored and used. Fat-soluble vitamins require bile in order to be absorbed into the lymph system from the intestines. One of the fat-soluble vitamins,
Vitamin E, is an important antioxidant that protects cell membranes and artery walls.
Vitamin A comes from two different sources. Provitamin A is found in vegetables and fruits and is known as beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is always non-toxic in foods, even if you consume a lot of vegetables and fruits. Beta-carotene functions as an antioxidant and can be converted to the other forms of vitamin A.
The other dietary source of vitamin Ais found mainly in animal livers. Vitamin Afrom animal products and supplements has the potential to be toxic. Vitamin Ahas many functions, one of which is enhancing vision in low light. Vitamin D is important for maintaining strong bones. Vitamin D is normally made in the skin with the help of sunlight. Supplementation may be necessary for people who do not get much sunlight. This vitamin has few natural dietary sources.
Vitamin D is added to milk and is found in the oils of a few fish. Vitamin D is never toxic when made from sunlight in the skin, but it can be toxic when taken as fish liver oil or in supplements. Vitamin E is a family of related compounds. Vitamin E is mainly found in almonds, sunflower seeds, and cold-pressed oils. Vitamin E serves as a powerful antioxidant, protecting fatty areas in the body. Vitamin E is non-toxic, although huge doses can encourage a tendency toward bleeding.
Vitamin K is needed for normal blood clotting. Vitamin K is found in abundance in green leafy vegetables. Vitamin K is non-toxic in food and supplements. Unlike the other fat-soluble vitamins, vitamin K is not stored in the body .
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