FROM MY PT SCHOOL NOTES · NUTRITION · UNIT 1 · CHAPTER 04
Vitamins: Functions, Sources, and Cautions
Vitamins do not provide calories, but many are required for metabolism, growth, tissue function, blood formation, and maintenance. The course distinguishes fat-soluble from water-soluble vitamins.
What matters most
- Fat-soluble: A, D, E, K. These are absorbed with dietary fat and can be stored. Deficiency and excess depend on the particular vitamin, dose, and health status.
- Water-soluble: B family and C. These participate in many metabolic and tissue functions. “Water soluble” does not mean high-dose supplements are automatically safe.
- Vitamin D with calcium. Relevant to bone mineral regulation and musculoskeletal health; adequacy can be influenced by dietary intake, absorption, sun exposure, and medical conditions.
Vitamin D clarification: sunlight is not a dietary source. UVB can support skin synthesis; nutritional sources and clinical supplementation decisions are separate considerations.
The PT connection
Think “possible nutrition concern” with unexplained fatigue, weakness, neuropathic symptoms, poor wound recovery, or fracture history. Refer rather than diagnosing a vitamin deficiency based on symptoms.
Current-practice perspective
Older class slides may use dated sun-exposure or supplement assumptions. Check NIH Office of Dietary Supplements fact sheets for current nutrient-specific dose, risk, and interaction information.
From my original course material: 4 Vitamins.pdf (pp. 2–8, 9–35, 36–68). These are personal PT-school class notes adapted for education. Historical claims require current source verification. Not individualized nutrition advice or a substitute for a registered dietitian or prescribing team.
