Vitamins That Dissolve In Fat

Vitamins that dissolve in fat are known as fat-soluble vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed in the small intestine and then are stored in the liver and fatty tissues until the body needs them. Since these vitamins are stored in the body, taking too much of them can be toxic, according to "Nutrition Concepts and Controversies 10th Edition" authors Frances Sizer and Eli Whitney.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A, also known as retinol or retinoic acid, is responsible for vision, epithelial cells, mucous membranes, growth of the skin, bone and teeth, reproduction and immune system support. Vitamin A can be found in fortified milk, cheese, cream, butter, eggs and liver. According to Sizer and Whitney, men need 900 micrograms of vitamin A each day, and women need 700 micrograms each day. Taking more than 3,000 micrograms of vitamin A can result in toxic levels and cause health consequences, such as birth defects, fractures, rashes and liver failure. Consult a doctor before taking any extra vitamin A or supplements since it can be toxic.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is responsible for calcification of bones and assists with the body's use of calcium and phosphorus, according to the Vitamins and Nutrition Center. Vitamin D is also known as the "sunshine vitamin" because sunlight causes the body to produce vitamin D. However, many people do not get enough sunlight, according to Sizer and Whitney, so milk has been fortified with vitamin D. Salmon and shrimp also provide vitamin D. The recommended intake for adults ages 19 to 50 years old is 5 micrograms a day. For adults 51 to 70 years old, 10 micrograms is needed, and those older than 70 years should take 15 micrograms a day. Before taking vitamin D supplements, consult a doctor.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is responsible for making the blood clot. Without vitamin K, a person could bleed to death. Vitamin K is also responsible for ensuring the health of the bones. Adequate intake of vitamin K has been shown to reduce the risk of hip fractures, according to Sizer and Whitney. Sources of vitamin K include dark green leafy vegetables, liver, canola and soybean oils, and fortified cereals. The recommended daily intake of vitamin K is 120 micrograms a day for men and 90 micrograms a day for women. Talk with a doctor if you take the blood-thinning medication called warfarin, which interferes with vitamin K.