The Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Fat soluble vitamins are those that need fat in order to be absorbed by the body. Important constituents of this group are the following:

Vitamin A (Retinol) is needed for the growth of the skeleton, maintenance of mucous membranes, and keen sight. It is found in green leafy vegetables, yellow fruits and vegetables, cod liver oils, liver, milk, cheese, butter and egg yolk. Deficiency of this vitamin causes night blindness.

Vitamin D is needed for the normal growth of bones and teeth, and for calcium and phosphorus absorption from the intestines. Needed amounts are usually obtained from vitamins added to many foods, especially milk and dairy products, and exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D deficiency causes rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

Vitamin E (Tocopherol) is needed for muscle development, and many other bodily functions. Dietary sources include wheat, soybean, peanut, corn oils, margarine, eggs, butter, liver, sweet potatoes, and the leaves of vegetables. Vitamin E deficiency causes muscle damage, anemia and liver and kidney damage. This vitamin is also associated with the aging process.

Vitamin K is needed by the liver for its normal function, and helps the blood to form a clot. It is found in green, leafy vegetables, pork liver, yogurt, egg yolk and fish-liver oils. In the intestines, it is made by the bacteria. A deficiency of this vitamin leads to bleeding disorders.

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