VITAMIN DEFICIENCIES IN GASTROINTESTINAL DISEASE

Abstract

Studies of the biochemistry of the vitamins have indicated that the important physiologic actions of these substances lie in their participation in intracellular metabolism and energy production. This is accomplished by virtue of their function as a prosthetic group in certain of the coenzymes, leading to the conception that avitaminosis may exist at 2 levels, one of disturbed physiology which antedates the 2d, and anatomic change which results from long standing deprivation. Studies of the blood levels of vit. A, carotene and ascorbic acid, indicate that at least some widely used diets for the treatment of gastrointestinal conditions are insufficient to maintain normal nutrition. Likewise studies of the vit. K status indicate that vit. K deficiency occurs not uncommonly in the absence of jaundice.