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

Folate, also known as folic acid, is a vital B-vitamin essential for cell growth and DNA synthesis. It plays a crucial role during pregnancy in helping to prevent birth defects. Folate is naturally present in leafy green vegetables, fruit, beans, and fortified foods. Supplements are commonly taken during pregnancy and for certain health conditions. A deficiency in folate 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 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 provides a more accurate indication of recent vitamin B12 status than total vitamin B12, as it represents the fraction that is immediately available for use by the body.

Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 that plays a vital 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 produced from the amino acid tryptophan. A deficiency in nicotinic acid can lead to pellagra, a condition characterised by diarrhoea, dermatitis, and dementia.

Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that supports vision, immune defence, skin integrity, and reproductive health. It plays a key role in low-light vision, maintaining healthy mucous membranes, and promoting normal growth. Found in foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, liver, and dairy products, Vitamin A deficiency can lead to impaired vision, reduced immunity, and skin issues.

Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for the production of red blood cells, the proper functioning of the nervous system, and energy metabolism. It uniquely contains the metal cobalt and naturally occurs 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 fortified foods or supplements to meet 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 system. It is found in foods such as meat, fish, poultry, and whole grains. Niacin also helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels and overall metabolic function. A deficiency may cause fatigue, skin issues, and cognitive problems, and supplementation may be necessary in certain medical conditions.

Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is an essential nutrient that helps the body convert 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 vital role in maintaining healthy skin, promoting 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 is obtained and utilised.

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.