Unit 4. Vitamins and Minerals

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Explain the difference between fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins
- List the main functions of vitamins and minerals in the body
- Identify important minerals and their roles
- Use Present Simple Passive correctly

Theory

Vitamins and minerals are essential for the proper functioning of the human body. You can get your daily intake of vitamins and minerals from a variety of foods.

There are two types of vitamins: fat-soluble and water-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) dissolve in fat and are stored in the body. Water-soluble vitamins (C and B-complex vitamins) need to be dissolved in water before they can be absorbed. The body cannot store water-soluble vitamins, so you need a new supply every day.

While vitamins are organic substances (made by plants or animals), minerals are inorganic elements found in soil and water. Your body needs larger amounts of certain minerals, like calcium, to grow and stay healthy.

Vitamins and minerals strengthen the immune system, support normal growth and development, and help cells and organs function. For example, carrots are rich in carotenoids, which are converted into vitamin A and help prevent eye problems.

Minerals make up about 4% of body weight. The most important mineral elements needed in relatively large quantities are calcium, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, chlorine and sulfur. Some elements such as iron, copper, manganese, zinc, iodine and fluorine are needed in very small amounts (trace minerals).

Key Terms

vitamins, minerals, fat-soluble, water-soluble, immune system, calcium, phosphorus, iron, trace minerals, carotenoids, organic substances, inorganic elements

Exercise

1. Answer the questions:
1. What is the main difference between fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins?
2. Why do we need a new supply of water-soluble vitamins every day?
3. What role do calcium and phosphorus play in the body?
4. Why are some minerals called trace minerals?

2. True or False:
1. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body. (True)
2. Minerals account for approximately 14% of body weight. (False)
3. Carrots are good for your eyes because of carotenoids. (True)

Mini Quiz

1. Which of the following is a fat-soluble vitamin?
a) Vitamin C
b) Vitamin A
c) Vitamin B12

2. Water-soluble vitamins are not ________ in the body.
a) absorbed
b) stored
c) used

3. Calcium and phosphorus are mainly used to form ________.
a) blood
b) bones and teeth
c) muscles