Answer:
Vitamins are essential organic compounds that are required in small amounts to maintain various physiological processes in the human body. They are classified into two groups: fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and water-soluble vitamins (B-complex vitamins and vitamin C).
The dietary sources and biochemical functions of each vitamin are as follows:
Vitamin A - Found in liver, fish, eggs, and dairy products. It is required for vision, immune function, and growth.
Vitamin D - Found in fatty fish, eggs, and fortified dairy products. It is required for bone health and helps the body absorb calcium.
Vitamin E - Found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. It acts as an antioxidant and helps protect cells from damage.
Vitamin K - Found in green leafy vegetables and certain fruits. It is required for blood clotting.
B-complex vitamins - Found in meat, fish, poultry, whole grains, and fortified cereals. They play various roles in energy production, nervous system function, and red blood cell formation. Examples include:
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) - Required for energy production and nerve function. Deficiency can cause beriberi.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) - Required for energy production and cell growth. Deficiency can cause skin and eye disorders.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) - Required for energy production and proper digestion. Deficiency can cause pellagra.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) - Required for energy production and hormone synthesis. Deficiency is rare.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) - Required for protein metabolism and immune function. Deficiency can cause anemia and neurological problems.
Vitamin B7 (Biotin) - Required for energy production and proper metabolism. Deficiency is rare.
Vitamin B9 (Folate) - Required for cell growth and development. Deficiency can cause anemia and birth defects.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) - Required for nerve function and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can cause anemia and neurological problems.
Vitamin C - Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers. It acts as an antioxidant and is required for collagen synthesis. Deficiency can cause scurvy.
In summary, vitamins are essential nutrients required for a range of functions in the body. They can be obtained through a balanced diet, and deficiency of any vitamin can lead to various health problems.
Step-by-step explanation: