Which vitamins are not stored in the body and are excreted, requiring regular intake?

Which vitamins are not stored in the body and are excreted, requiring regular intake?

• A. Fat-soluble vitamins
• B. Minerals
• C. Trace minerals
• D. Water-soluble vitamins

Answer: (D)

Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C and the B vitamins, are not stored in the body's tissues in significant amounts. They dissolve in body water, circulate, and any excess is filtered by the kidneys and excreted in urine. Because stores are limited, you need a regular intake of these vitamins to maintain adequate levels and prevent deficiency. In contrast, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) are stored in the liver and fatty tissues, so the body can draw on these stores during periods of lower intake, and excessive amounts can accumulate and cause toxicity. Minerals and trace minerals have their own storage and excretion patterns and are not treated the same way as water-soluble vitamins.

Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C and the B vitamins, are not stored in the body's tissues in significant amounts. They dissolve in body water, circulate, and any excess is filtered by the kidneys and excreted in urine. Because stores are limited, you need a regular intake of these vitamins to maintain adequate levels and prevent deficiency. In contrast, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) are stored in the liver and fatty tissues, so the body can draw on these stores during periods of lower intake, and excessive amounts can accumulate and cause toxicity. Minerals and trace minerals have their own storage and excretion patterns and are not treated the same way as water-soluble vitamins.