Question

Discuss the role of vitamins in meal planning.

Answer 1

1. Vitamins in general, regulate metabolic processes and participate in the transformation of food into energy. Vitamins B, C, and E play a role in fat and carbohydrate metabolism and endurance performance.
2. Since vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and is stored in the body, care must be taken with supplemental ingestion because its toxicity may occur.
3. B-complex vitamins, taken during exercise, help in energy production. They aid in the production of red blood cells, in protein synthesis and in tissue repair and in maintenance especially of CNS (Central Nervous System).
4. Vitamin C helps in improving endurance of the athlete during activity. Large doses of vitamin C, which is a water-soluble vitamin, can result in nausea, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea.
5. Vitamin K is required for clotting, which is of great help in faster recovery from injury.
6. Vitamin D builds bone strength which can help in the prevention of fracture.