Section 2: Micronutrients (Vitamins, Minerals, and Water)

What are vitamins?

Organic compounds required by the body in small amounts for metabolism of carbs, proteins, and fats.

Do vitamins provide calories?

No, they do not supply energy.

Which foods contain higher vitamin content: fresh or processed?

Fresh foods contain higher vitamin levels.

How are vitamins classified?

Into water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins.

Name the water-soluble vitamins.

Vitamin C and the B-complex group (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, folate, etc.).

Where are water-soluble vitamins stored?

They are not stored in the body and must be consumed regularly.

Name the fat-soluble vitamins.

Vitamins A, D, E, and K.

How are fat-soluble vitamins absorbed?

Through the intestinal wall along with dietary fats.

What vitamin affects visual acuity in dim light?

Vitamin A.

What is the function of Vitamin D?

It helps with calcium and phosphorus metabolism and promotes calcium absorption.

What is the main role of Vitamin E?

It acts as an antioxidant and protects Vitamin A.

What does Vitamin K help synthesize?

Proteins necessary for blood clotting.

What are minerals?

Inorganic elements found in all body fluids and tissues that regulate body processes and provide structure

How are minerals classified?

Into macrominerals and microminerals (trace elements).

Name some macrominerals.

Calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium.

Name some microminerals.

iron, zinc, copper, manganese, chromium, selenium, fluoride, iodine.

Where are minerals found after digestion?

In the ash that remains after digestion and metabolism.

What is the general function of minerals in the body?

They help regulate body processes and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

What percentage of an adult’s total body weight is water?

About 50% to 60%.

How much of body water is contained within cells?

About two-thirds (intracellular fluid, ICF).

What makes up the remaining one-third of body water?

Extracellular fluid (ECF), including plasma and interstitial fluid.

What are the primary functions of water in the body?

Acts as a solvent, aids digestion, absorption, circulation, and excretion, and provides a medium for chemical reactions.

Why is water more vital to life than food?

Because it provides the medium necessary for all chemical reactions and cannot be stored in the body.

Is the statement “Food is more vital than water” true or false?

False — water is more vital for sustaining life.