Vitamins:The term "vitamin" was introduced in 1911 by Casimir Funk, a biochemist born in Warsaw (1884-1967). While working at the Lister Institute in London, Funk identified a substance that prevented nerve inflammation (neuritis) in chickens fed a diet lacking this compound. He initially called it "vitamine" because he believed it was vital for life and classified it as a chemical amine. The "e" was later dropped when it was discovered that not all vitamins are amines. Vitamins were labeled with letters (A, B, C, etc.) based on the order of their discovery, except for vitamin "K," which was named for "Koagulation" by Danish researcher Henrik Dam.Vitamin A: Known as Retinol, carotene compounds in vitamin A are crucial for transmitting light signals in the eyes. A deficiency can lead to vision problems.Beta Carotene: This is an antioxidant that shields cells from oxidative damage, which can result in cancer. It can be converted into vitamin A as needed. Rich sources of beta carotene include vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and other leafy greens, as well as fruits like cantaloupes and apricots. Consuming too much carotene can cause carotenemia, a temporary yellowing of the skin, often seen in infants who eat a lot of mashed carrots.Vitamin B1: Also known as Thiamin, it plays a role in metabolic processes. Lack of this vitamin can cause beriberi, affecting the heart and nervous system.Vitamin B2: This vitamin is important for coenzyme reactions. A deficiency can result in mouth and skin inflammation.Vitamin B3: An essential component of metabolic coenzymes, a shortage of this vitamin can lead to skin inflammation, digestive issues, and mental sluggishness.Vitamin B6: Acts as a cofactor for enzymes. A deficiency can cause skin and mouth inflammation, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, weakness, and other symptoms.Folate (Folic Acid): Essential for nucleic acid synthesis, a lack of folate can result in megaloblastic anemia.Vitamin B12: Vital for nucleic acid synthesis in all cells, a deficiency can also cause megaloblastic anemia.Vitamin C: Crucial for synthesizing collagen, the structural protein for body tissues. A deficit leads to scurvy, marked by fragile tissues, poor wound healing, and bone deformities in children.Vitamin D: This vitamin aids in the absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorus. Sunlight typically provides enough to prevent the need for dietary supplements. A deficiency can lead to bone issues like osteoporosis in adults and rickets in children.Vitamin E: A deficiency may result in anemia.Vitamin K: Necessary for forming blood clotting factors, a deficiency can cause abnormal bleeding.
