Vitamers are various chemicals that behave similarly to vitamins and are frequently classified as vitamins due to their similar biological effects in the body. These variations or analogs have comparable biological action to certain vitamins and frequently provide equivalent health advantages. Here's a quick rundown of some vital nutrients: Vitamin A : Retinol: Vitamin A's most active form, essential for vision, immunological function, and cell growth. The retina is essential for the visual cycle and turning light into nerve messages. Retinoic Acid: Retinoic acid is essential for gene expression, cell differentiation, and skin health. Vitamin B : Thiamine (B1): Exists in several forms, including thiamine pyrophosphate, and is essential for energy metabolism and neuronal function. Riboflavin (B2): Used in the creation of energy by being converted into coenzymes such as flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD). Niacin (B3): This vitamin contains nicotinic acid and nicotinamide, which are essential for cellular metabolism and DNA repair. Pantothenic acid (B5) is required for the synthesis of coenzyme A and is involved in a variety of metabolic pathways. Pyridoxine (B6): Pyridoxal, pyridoxine, and pyridoxamine are all forms of pyridoxine, which is required for amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter production. Biotin (B7): Acts as a coenzyme in a variety of metabolic processes. Vitamin C : Ascorbic acid is required for the synthesis of collagen, antioxidant defense, and immunological function. Vitamin D : Cholecalciferol (D3): A vitamin that is formed in the skin as a result of sun exposure and is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Ergocalciferol (D2): Obtained through dietary sources or supplements and converted to active forms for actions comparable to D3. Vitamin E : Tocopherols and tocotrienols act as antioxidants, preventing oxidative damage to cells. Vitamin K : Phylloquinone (K1): A plant compound that is essential for blood coagulation. Menquinones (K2): Found in fermented foods and synthesized by bacteria in the stomach, menquinones (K2) are vital for bone health and calcium metabolism. Understanding the many types of vitamers allows us to appreciate their various sources and roles in sustaining good health, highlighting the significance of a well-balanced diet in order to obtain enough levels of these crucial chemicals.
