Apart from the generic names, there are vitamins and scientific names for all vitamins. Given below is the list of vitamins and their scientific names:
Vitamin
|
Scientific name
|
Vitamin A
|
Retinol
|
Vitamin B1
|
Thiamine
|
Vitamin B2
|
Riboflavin
|
Vitamin B3
|
Niacin
|
Vitamin B5
|
Pantothenic acid
|
Vitamin B6
|
Pyridoxine
|
Vitamin B7
|
Biotin
|
Vitamin B9
|
Folic acid
|
Vitamin B12
|
Cobalamins
|
Vitamin C
|
Ascorbic acid
|
Vitamin D
|
Calciferol
|
Vitamin E
|
Tocopherol
|
Vitamin K
|
Phytonadione
|
Explore: Vitamin and mineral deficiency diseases: Symptoms, causes and remedies
Sources of vitamins
Vitamins can be obtained from various food sources, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, fish, and fortified foods. Here's a brief overview of the primary sources of each vitamin:
Vitamin list names
|
Major source
|
Vitamin A
|
Fish oil, dairy products, and fortified foods
|
Vitamin B
|
Whole grains, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens
|
Vitamin C
|
Citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, and tomatoes
|
Vitamin D
|
Synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight, also found in fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods
|
Vitamin E
|
Found in nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and leafy greens
|
Vitamin K
|
Green leafy vegetables, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and soybean oil
|
Also, read: Scientific name of vitamin K
Classification of vitamins
Vitamins are essential nutrients that our body needs to function properly. They are classified into two main groups: fat-soluble (vitamins A, D, E, and K) and water-soluble (vitamin C and the B vitamins). The chemical name of all vitamins is crucial for understanding their specific roles and sources. For instance, vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid, and vitamin B12 is cyanocobalamin. These chemical names often indicate their structure and function in the body.
Water soluble vitamins:
Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and the B vitamins (like B1 or thiamine, B2 or riboflavin, and B3 or niacin), dissolve in water and are not stored in the body. This means they must be consumed regularly through diet. The chemical name of all vitamins in this group highlights their diverse functions, from energy metabolism to immune support.
Fat soluble vitamins:
Fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, are stored in the body's fatty tissues and liver. These vitamins are essential for various functions such as vision, bone health, and blood clotting. Understanding the chemical name of all vitamins in this category, like retinol (vitamin A) and tocopherol (vitamin E), helps in identifying their specific health benefits and dietary sources.
Comprehensive information on vitamins
Understanding vitamins and their chemical names is crucial for recognising their roles in the body. Each vitamin has a unique structure that contributes to its function, and knowing both the common and scientific names helps in identifying their sources and benefits effectively.
1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A, also known as retinol, is essential for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. It plays a vital role in cellular communication and reproduction, with dietary sources including liver, fish, dairy products, and orange or green vegetables.
2. Vitamin B1
Vitamin B1, or thiamine, is crucial for energy metabolism and the proper functioning of the nervous system. It helps convert carbohydrates into energy and supports cognitive function. Good sources include whole grains, legumes, nuts, and pork.
3. Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2, known as riboflavin, is important for energy production and cellular function. It acts as an antioxidant and supports skin and eye health. Dairy products, eggs, lean meats, and green leafy vegetables are excellent sources of riboflavin.
4. Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3, or niacin, plays a significant role in metabolism and DNA repair. It supports the nervous system and skin health. Foods rich in niacin include poultry, fish, whole grains, and legumes.
5. Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5, also called pantothenic acid, is essential for synthesizing coenzyme A, vital for fatty acid metabolism. It supports hormone production and is found in a variety of foods, including meat, avocados, and whole grains.
6. Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is involved in amino acid metabolism and the production of neurotransmitters. It plays a key role in immune function and is found in fish, poultry, potatoes, and bananas.
7. Vitamin B7
Vitamin B7, commonly known as biotin, is important for carbohydrate and fat metabolism. It supports healthy hair, skin, and nails. Biotin is found in foods such as eggs, nuts, seeds, and certain vegetables.
8. Vitamin B9
Vitamin B9, or folate (or folic acid in supplements), is crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division. It is especially important during pregnancy for fetal development. Rich sources include leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals.
9. Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, is essential for red blood cell formation and neurological function. It is primarily found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, making supplementation important for vegetarians and vegans.
10. Vitamin C
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and collagen production. It aids in iron absorption and promotes healthy skin. Fruits like oranges, strawberries, and kiwi are rich in vitamin C.
11. Vitamin D
Vitamin D, often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. It can be synthesized in the skin through sunlight exposure and is also found in fatty fish and fortified dairy products.
12. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage. It plays a role in immune function and skin health. Good sources include nuts, seeds, spinach, and vegetable oils.
13. Vitamin K
Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone health. It exists in two forms: K1 (phylloquinone) found in green leafy vegetables and K2 (menaquinone) found in fermented foods and animal products. Adequate vitamin K intake supports cardiovascular health.
