NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

Which type of vitamins cannot be stored in the body?

1. Fat-soluble vitamins

2. Water-soluble vitamins

3. Mineral vitamins

4. Supplemental vitamins

The correct answer is: Water-soluble vitamins

Water-soluble vitamins are characterized by their inability to be stored in significant amounts within the body. This group includes vitamins such as vitamin C and the B vitamins (such as B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, and folate). Since these vitamins dissolve in water, they are easily absorbed into the bloodstream and any excess that the body does not use is excreted through urine. This means they need to be consumed regularly in the diet to maintain sufficient levels for the body's requirements. In contrast, fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins A, D, E, and K) can be stored in the liver and fatty tissues for later use. Mineral vitamins is a somewhat misleading term, as minerals are inorganic nutrients and do not fall under the classification of vitamins. Finally, supplemental vitamins refer to vitamins taken in the form of supplements, which can include both water-soluble and fat-soluble types, but does not pertain directly to the body's storage capacity.