Understandings:
- Vitamins are organic micronutrients which (mostly) cannot be synthesized by the body but must be obtained from suitable food sources.
- The solubility (water or fat) of a vitamin can be predicted from its structure.
- Most vitamins are sensitive to heat.
- Vitamin deficiencies in the diet cause particular diseases and affect millions of people worldwide.
Applications and skills:
- Comparison of the structures of vitamins A, C and D.
- Discussion of the causes and effects of vitamin deficiencies in different countries and suggestion of solutions.
Guidance:
- The structures of vitamins A, C and D are provided in the data booklet section 35.
- Specific food sources of vitamins or names of deficiency diseases do not have to be learned.
|
International-mindedness:
- The food supplements industry, especially the sale of vitamin pills, has become very lucrative in many countries.
- Vitamin D deficiency is increasing, partly as a result of greater protection of the skin from sunlight.
Theory of knowledge:
- What are the ethical considerations in adding supplements to commonly consumed foods, such as fluoride to water or iodine to salt? Public bodies can protect the individual but also limit their freedom. How do we know what is best for society and the individual?
- Linus Pauling is the only man to win two individual Nobel Prizes. His claim that vitamin C supplements could prevent diseases such as the common cold led to their widespread use. What is the role of authority in communicating scientific knowledge to the public?
Utilization:
- Syllabus and cross-curricular links:
- Topics 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3—structure and physical properties
- Topic 10.1—organic functional groups
- Topic 20.3—configurational isomerism
- Biology option D.2—human nutrition and health
Aims:
- Aim 6: Experiments could include the DCPIP determination of vitamin C levels in foods.
|
Print