Preksha Dhyana Human Body Part 2

Author(s): Jethalal S Zaveri
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

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out a large fraction of the sun's rays. Vitamin D2 (calciferol) is the commercial form of vitamin D.
This vitamin increases calcium-absorption from the gastrointestinal tract and also helps to control bone-formation and resorption. Its deficiency in children causes rickets (bones are soft and fragile and the skeleton becomes malformed). In adults, it leads to softening of the bones, skeletal deformities and frequent fractures. Milk and butter are good sources for this vitamin. Since this vitamin is commonly added to processed foods, a possible overdose in quite likely.
Vitamin E: This is so widespread in foods that actual deficiencies are virtually unknown. Children with cystic fibrosis may have it as a result of malabsorption in the intestines. This vitamin acts as an antioxidant, preventing the oxidation of unsaturated fats. It also provides protection against action of radiation and environmental pollution. Food sources of vitamin E are wheat-germ, oil, whole wheat products, lettuce, milk and butter.
Vitamin K This vitamin is essential for blood-clotting. It is produced by the intestinal bacteria. Taking an. tibiotic may kill the population of beneficial intestinal bac teria together with the invading pathogens and the body is without its normal supply of vitamins. At such times, a dietary intake of this vitamin, which is otherwise produced in sufficient quantities, is necessary. It is present in most foods, especially spinach and other leafy vegetables and tomatoes. Its deficiency slows the process of blood-clotting and haemorrhage occurs readily. It is often given routinely before surgery and before delivery to control possible haemorrhages
The table giving information on major vitamins is given in appendix A.
Minerals Minerals constitute about 4% of the body. weight. As many as 40 elements are critical for the proper
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