Fat soluble vitamins

Question 1

What are the four fat soluble vitamins?

Answer 1

A, D, E and K

Question 2

What are the four key characteristics of fat soluble vitamins?

Answer 2

1. Soluble in fat
2. Bile salts and dietary fat are essential for their absorption
3. Generally stored in the liver
4. Not excreted in urine

Question 3

What are the six functions of vitamin A?

Answer 3

1. Vision in dim light
2. Reproduction and embryonic development
3. Bone growth and health
4. Immune function
5. Cell differentiation
6. Beta-carotene (precursor) is an antioxidant
7. Mucous secretion in respiratory and GI tracts

Question 4

What are the key dietary sources of preformed vitamin A (retinol)?

Answer 4

1. Fish liver oils
2. Liver and liver products
3. Fortified fat spreads
4. Egg yolk
5. Milk and milk products

Question 5

Why are the key dietary sources of provitamin carotenoids (e.g. β-carotene)?

Answer 5

1. Dark green leafy vegetables
2. Sweet potatoes
3. Pumpkin and squash
4. Carrots
5. Red peppers
6. Tomatoes
7. Yellow fruits
8. Some plant oils e.g. palm oil

Question 6

What is the factor used to convert β-carotene to retinol equivalents?

Answer 6

6µg of β-carotene = 1µg of retinol equivalents

Question 7

Do cooking processes harm retinol or carotenoids?

Answer 7

No
In fact, cooking carrots enhances their digestibility and makes more β-carotene available for absorption