Photo: Mackenzie Stroh
Q: Is it true that our bodies can't absorb vitamins without fat?
A: Two kinds of vitamins—B-complex and C—are water-soluble and easily absorbed. But the rest of the vitamins are fat-soluble, meaning their absorption is enhanced by dietary fat. These are vitamin A (found in carrots and sweet potatoes), vitamin D (found in fish), vitamin K (found in leafy greens), and vitamin E (found in almonds). So the next time you eat foods rich in these vitamins, consider adding a little healthy fat to the dish. Even full-fat salad dressings can be a good choice if they're made at home using heart-healthy oils like olive or canola. But skip store-bought dressings, which are often loaded with cream (not a healthy fat source) or high-fructose corn syrup.
Ask Dr. Katz a question, plus find out if vitamin supplements are worth the money
David L. Katz, MD, is director of the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center and president of the nonprofit Turn the Tide Foundation.
A: Two kinds of vitamins—B-complex and C—are water-soluble and easily absorbed. But the rest of the vitamins are fat-soluble, meaning their absorption is enhanced by dietary fat. These are vitamin A (found in carrots and sweet potatoes), vitamin D (found in fish), vitamin K (found in leafy greens), and vitamin E (found in almonds). So the next time you eat foods rich in these vitamins, consider adding a little healthy fat to the dish. Even full-fat salad dressings can be a good choice if they're made at home using heart-healthy oils like olive or canola. But skip store-bought dressings, which are often loaded with cream (not a healthy fat source) or high-fructose corn syrup.
Ask Dr. Katz a question, plus find out if vitamin supplements are worth the money
David L. Katz, MD, is director of the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center and president of the nonprofit Turn the Tide Foundation.
From the April 2010 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine
As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.
