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21.8 Vitamins and Coenzymes

Enzymes and Vitamins Academic

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Enzymes are proteins that allow chemical reactions to occur in your cells.

Enzymes allow your cells to extract nutrients from foods, run your metabolism efficiently, and build/break down molecules for construction and repair of cells

Many vitamins act to help enzymes do their job. Without them, enzymes can’t work efficiently

Enzymes and Vitamins

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Water-Soluble VitaminsWater-soluble vitamins are: Soluble in water (Vitamins B and C) Used as helpers by many enzymes. Not stored in the body -> extra are urinated out

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Fat-Soluble VitaminsFat-soluble vitamins: Are A, D, E, and K. Soluble in lipids, but not in water. Important in vision, bone formation,

antioxidants, and blood clotting. Stored in the body.

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Thiamin (Vitamin B1)

Thiamin: Was the first B vitamin identified. Is part of the coenzyme thiamin pyrophosphate. Deficiency results in beriberi (fatigue, weight

loss, and nerve degeneration).

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Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

Riboflavin is: Needed for good vision and healthy skin.

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Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Niacin: Deficiency can result in

dermatitis, muscle fatigue, and loss of appetite.

Is found in meats, rice, and whole grains.

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Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)

Pantothenic acid: needed for energy production as well as making

glucose and cholesterol. Deficiency can result in fatigue, retarded

growth, cramps, and anemia. Is found in salmon, meat, eggs, whole grains,

and vegetables.

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Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)

Deficiency of pyridoxine may lead to dermatitis, fatigue, and anemia.

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Cobalamin (Vitamin B12)

Cobalamin: Is a coenzyme for enzymes

that transfer methyl groups and produce red blood cells.

Deficiency can lead to anemia and nerve damage.

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Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

Vitamin C: Is required to make collagen Deficiency can lead to

weakened connective tissue, slow-healing wounds, and anemia.

Is found in blueberries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli, red and green vegetables.

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Folic Acid (Folate)

Folic acid (folate): Helps enzymes to form

DNA in new cells Deficiency can lead to

abnormal red blood cells, anemia, and poor growth.

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Vitamin A Vitamin A is obtained from meats and beta-

carotenes in plants (carrots for example) Beta-carotenes are converted by liver enzymes

to vitamin A (retinol). Important in vision, bone growth, and healthy

skin formation

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Vitamin D

Vitamin D (D3): Is synthesized in skin

exposed to sunlight. Regulates the absorption of

phosphorus and calcium during bone growth.

Deficiency can result in weakened bones.

Sources include cod liver oil, egg yolk, and enriched milk.

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Vitamin E

Vitamin E: Is an antioxidant in cells. Is found in vegetable oils, whole grains, and

vegetables.

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Vitamin K Vitamin K2 is needed for the synthesis of

zymogens for blood clotting.