Vitamins: Chemical Names & Diseases Caused by Deficiency
Vitamins are essential organic compounds that play an important role in maintaining overall health and preventing various deficiency-related diseases. Each vitamin has a unique chemical structure and performs specific functions in the body. Deficiency of these vitamins can lead to many types of health problems.
1. Vitamin A (Retinol)
Chemical Name: Retinol
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Night blindness, xerophthalmia (dry eyes), impaired immune function.
2. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Chemical Name: Thiamine
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Beriberi (nerve and heart damage), Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (alcohol-related brain disorder).
3. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Chemical Name: Riboflavin
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Ariboflavinosis (sore throat, redness and swelling of mouth and throat lining, cracks or sores on the outer part of lips).
4. Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Chemical Name: Niacin (nicotinic acid and nicotinamide)
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Pellagra (diarrhea, skin inflammation, dementia, and if untreated, death).
5. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Chemical Name: Pantothenic Acid
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Pantothenic acid deficiency is rare and not well characterized in humans.
6. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Chemical Names: Pyridoxine, Pyridoxal, Pyridoxamine
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Deficiency of vitamin B6 can cause anemia, peripheral neuropathy (tingling and numbness), seizures, dermatitis, and glossitis (swollen tongue).
7. Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Chemical Name: Biotin
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Biotin deficiency is rare, but in severe cases may cause dermatitis, hair loss, conjunctivitis, and neurological symptoms.
8. Vitamin B9 (Folate or Folic Acid)
Chemical Names: Folic Acid, Folate
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Megaloblastic anemia, neural tube defects during pregnancy, birth defects.
9. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Chemical Names: Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxocobalamin, Methylcobalamin
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Pernicious anemia, neurological problems, megaloblastic anemia.
10. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Chemical Name: Ascorbic Acid
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Scurvy (weakness, anemia, gum disease, and skin issues).
11. Vitamin D (Calciferol)
Chemical Names: Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2), Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Rickets (soft and weak bones in children), osteomalacia (bone softening in adults).
12. Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
Chemical Name: Tocopherol
Diseases Caused by Deficiency: Vitamin E deficiency is rare but may cause damage to nerves and muscles.
13. Vitamin K (Phylloquinone)
Chemical Names: Phylloquinone, Menaquinone (Vitamin K2)
Disease Caused by Deficiency: Blood clotting issues, excessive bleeding.
Vitamins are essential for maintaining optimal health and preventing various deficiency-related diseases. Understanding the chemical names of vitamins and their roles in the body empowers individuals to make informed dietary choices and overcome potential deficiencies. A balanced and nutritious diet rich in various foods containing these vitamins is vital for overall well-being. If you suspect any deficiency, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and appropriate intervention.
