Water-soluble vitamins and their main functions

Nutrition
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Define the terms:
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Nutrition
Antioxidant
Antioxidants are substances that are produced by our bodies and are found in certain foods that
inhibit oxidation and can avert or slow damage to cells triggered by free radicals, unstable
molecules that the body releases as a response to environmental and further pressures (Reiter et.
al 207)
Phytochemical
This is a chemical compound that occurs naturally in plants. They assist the plant to thrive by
fighting pathogens, predators and other competitors. They are commonly found in fruits,
vegetables, grains and other plants (Ghoshal 2018).
Bioavailability
Bioavailability is defined as a fraction of medicine or other substances which gets into the blood
flow when introduced into the body system and is effective in its purpose. It is the measure of the
dose that is absorbed and escapes first-pass eradication (Veber et. al).
Differentiating characteristics of fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins
Water soluble Vitamins exhibit the following characteristics.
They are absorbed in the body through the blood system.
They are readily expelled during urination in the urine.
They act as co-enzymes to catalyze action in the body
They easily dissolve in water
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