[Campbell Biology P.949] Which statement accurately describes the difference between water-s... | Practice Question
Which statement accurately describes the difference between water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins?
A: Water-soluble vitamins are stored in body fat, while fat-soluble vitamins are excreted in urine.
B: Fat-soluble vitamins are easily excreted in urine, while water-soluble vitamins can accumulate to toxic levels.
C: Water-soluble vitamins are generally harmless in excess due to urinary excretion, whereas fat-soluble vitamins can accumulate in body fat and become toxic.
D: Both types of vitamins are stored indefinitely in the body and can lead to toxicity if overconsumed.
Explanation
The text states that "Moderate overdoses of water-soluble vitamins are probably harmless because excesses are excreted in urine. However, excesses of fat-soluble vitamins are deposited in body fat, so overconsumption may cause them to accumulate to toxic levels." This directly supports option C.