Vitamins

25-hydroxy Vitamin D2 (25(OH)D2) is one of the two main forms of vitamin D measured in the blood, the other being 25-hydroxy Vitamin D3. While Vitamin D3 is typically produced in the skin through sunlight exposure and obtained from animal-based sources, Vitamin D2 is derived from plant-based sources and supplements. 25(OH)D2 is converted in the liver from ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2) and reflects the body's intake of this form of the vitamin. It plays a role in calcium and phosphate metabolism, immune function, and overall bone health. Although Vitamin D2 is less potent and has a shorter half-life than Vitamin D3, both forms contribute to total vitamin D status.

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is an essential nutrient that supports the body’s ability to convert food into energy. It plays a key role in metabolising fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, while also promoting healthy skin, hair, and nails. Although biotin deficiency is uncommon, supplements are frequently used to improve hair and nail strength.

CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) is a crucial compound that plays a key role in energy production in every cell of the body. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage. CoQ10 is essential for supporting overall health and proper cellular function.

Folate, also known as folic acid, is an essential B-vitamin vital for cell growth and DNA synthesis. It plays a crucial role during pregnancy in preventing birth defects. Folate is naturally present in leafy greens, fruits, beans, and fortified foods. Supplements are commonly used during pregnancy and certain medical conditions. A folate deficiency can lead to fatigue and a weakened immune system.

Holotranscobalamin (holoTC), also known as active vitamin B12, is the form of vitamin B12 bound to transcobalamin, a transport protein found in the blood. It is the only form that can be absorbed by cells through receptor-mediated endocytosis, making it directly available for cellular functions. Measuring holoTC offers a more accurate indication of recent vitamin B12 status than total vitamin B12, as it represents the fraction immediately available for use by the body.

Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 that plays a key role in cellular metabolism. It supports the health of the skin, nervous system, and digestive system. Unlike nicotinic acid, another form of vitamin B3, nicotinamide does not cause skin flushing. It is commonly used to treat skin conditions such as acne and is being researched for its potential benefits in neurodegenerative diseases and cancer prevention. Naturally found in foods like meat, fish, and green vegetables, nicotinamide is also available as a supplement and is widely included in skincare products.

Nicotinic acid (niacin or vitamin B3) is an essential nutrient that helps convert food into energy and supports healthy skin, nerve function, and digestion. It is naturally found in foods such as meat, fish, and grains, and can also be synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan. A deficiency in nicotinic acid can lead to pellagra, a condition characterized by diarrhea, dermatitis, and dementia.

Vitamin A is a vital nutrient that supports eyesight, immune defence, skin health, and reproductive well-being. It plays a crucial role in vision under low light, maintaining healthy mucous membranes, and encouraging normal growth. Found in foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, liver, and dairy products, Vitamin A deficiency can cause impaired vision, weakened immunity, and skin problems.

Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for the production of red blood cells, proper nervous system function, and energy metabolism. It uniquely contains the metal cobalt and is naturally present in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Since B12 is scarce in plant-based diets, vegetarians and vegans often need to consume fortified foods or supplements to fulfil their requirements.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is an essential nutrient that helps convert food into energy and supports the health of the skin, nervous system, and digestive tract. It is found in foods like meat, fish, poultry, and whole grains. Niacin also contributes to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and overall metabolic function. Deficiency may lead to fatigue, skin problems, and cognitive issues, and supplementation may be necessary in certain health conditions.

Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is an essential nutrient that helps the body turn food into energy by supporting the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Found in foods such as meats, avocados, broccoli, and whole grains, it plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin, aiding wound healing, supporting the nervous system, and helping to reduce stress.

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, supporting the immune system, and aiding muscle function. Unlike most vitamins, the body can produce vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight, making it unique in how it’s obtained and utilized.

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports immune function. It also plays a key role in maintaining healthy skin and blood vessels. Vitamin E is commonly found in foods such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables. Although deficiency is uncommon, it can lead to neurological problems.