Nutrition and Vitamin Deficiencies · USMLE Step 1

Which statement correctly contrasts fat-soluble versus water-soluble vitamins in terms of storage and deficiency development?

  1. Fat-soluble vitamins are not stored anywhere in the body, so their deficiencies appear within days
  2. Water-soluble vitamins accumulate in adipose tissue and cause toxicity before any deficiency
  3. Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in liver/fat, so deficiencies develop slowly
  4. Only water-soluble vitamins are required for normal human metabolism and cell function
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Correct answer: Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in liver/fat, so deficiencies develop slowly

Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) are stored in liver and adipose tissue; therefore, deficiency develops gradually if intake is inadequate. Water-soluble vitamins (B and C) are not stored and need regular replenishment.

Difficulty: Medium Question 10 of 21

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