The nutrients in our food are absorbed by the intestinal wall, enter the blood circulation and are transported to parts of the body where they are needed. The extent of absorption of a nutrient depends on its molecular physiochemical properties, in particular the lipophilicity. Efficiencies of absorption of B1, B2, B3, B5 and B6 vitamins were determined in the human small intestine. Partitioning between n-octanol/water was used as a model to mimic intestinal absorption. Vitamins B3 and B6 were found to have more efficient absorption compare to vitamins B1, B2, and B5, as their lipophilicities would suggest. Daily doses of these vitamins were also calculated from their absorption efficiencies and amounts required by our body, and compared to the quantities included in the multivitamin supplements.

Vitamins:  Is one a day enough?

245th National Meeting (2013)

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