Vitamins and Minerals: Key Concepts

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements.

Micronutrients

Essential vitamins and minerals required in small amounts by the body.

Bioavailability

The extent to which nutrients are absorbed and utilized by the body.

Water Soluble Vitamins

Vitamins B and C that are absorbed directly into the bloodstream and excreted in urine.

Fat Soluble Vitamins

Vitamins A, D, E, and K that require dietary fat for absorption and are stored in body fat.

Major Minerals

Minerals required in amounts greater than 100 mg per day.

Trace Minerals

Minerals required in smaller amounts, less than 100 mg per day.

Phytic Acid

A plant-based compound that can inhibit the absorption of certain minerals.

Dietary Supplements

Products that provide vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, or combinations thereof.

Supplement Facts Panel

Labeling information that provides nutrient content of a dietary supplement.

Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA)

Legislation that regulates dietary supplements and their labeling.

Folic Acid

A B vitamin important for cell growth and metabolism, particularly in pregnant women.

Calcium

An essential mineral important for bone health, often found in dairy products.

Vitamin D

A fat-soluble vitamin essential for calcium absorption and bone health.

Iron

An essential mineral required for the production of hemoglobin in red blood cells.

Choline

A nutrient that supports various bodily functions, including cellular membrane formation.

Toxicity

The harmful effects that can occur from excessive intake of vitamins or minerals.

MyPlate

A visual guide created by the USDA to help individuals understand food sources of nutrients.