Fat Soluble Vitamins

Probably not a burning issue for most people, but something I thought about a few days ago and just don’t have the answer. Regarding fat soluble vitamins and body fat levels – would the optimal daily intake of these vitamins vary with body fat levels? Since these vitamins can accumulate and cause toxicity, it would seem that, as body fat levels lower, that the daily intake should (increase/decrease). Any input?

brider, no. Even if your bodyfat levels go into the single digit area, there is still more than enough adipose tissue in your body to store excess fat soluble vitamins. They are also stored in the liver as well. In fact, you don’t even need to take or ingest fat soluble vitamins on a daily, weekly, or even monthly basis, because the body is super efficient in storing/accessing these micronutrients, once your stores are filled or needs are met.

No, the optimal intake does not really change. The issue of toxicity is really overdone by the anti-vitamin mafia i.e.(1)Vitamin A: no reason to take preformed vitamin A, take beta carotene which the body can convert to A, or eat carrots (worst that will happen is your skin will temporarily turn yellow if you eat too much) (2)Vitamin e: no real toxicity and most adults need at least 400 IU if not 800 IU to help prevent heart disease, cancer, etc. There are occasional reports of problems at 1600 IU and higher (rare) (3) vitamin D: yes I would avoid eating polar bear liver (which has >100,000IU) and you can get into trouble here. Do not take more than 800 IU except under a physicians guidance (4) Vitamin K: rarely seen as supplement (although perhaps useful for people with osteoporosis). Just eat enough broccoli, spinach, etc.