This is a question I am constantly having to ask myself… What is the difference between Fat and Water Soluble Vitamins? I always think I remember, but am never sure. So… I thought it deserved it’s very own post so that I can refer you back to it time and time again (and ultimately have a place to find the answer the next time I can’t remember.) :)

Fat soluble vitamins are vitamins that need fat to be absorbed by and stored in the body (therefore diets too low in fat can hinder absorption). Because these vitamins are stored in the body, should you consume too many, it is possible to have a toxic reaction (most people don’t need supplements). On the positive side, for the same reason, these vitamins stay with you for longer periods of time and are not necessary to consume daily. They also do not loose any of their nutritional value through cooking. Fat soluble vitamins include A, D, E, and K.

Water soluble vitamins are not stored in the body, but are absorbed by the water in your body and excreted in the urine. Because of this, you do not have to worry about toxicity, however, you do need to eat the right amounts of them every day! Keep in mind, too, that these vitamins are easily damaged through food storage and preparation! They include the B vitamins and vitamin C.