Which statement describes water-soluble vitamins characteristics?

• A. They are fat-soluble and stored in liver.
• B. They are absorbed in the small intestine, have minimal storage, excreted in urine, non-toxic in natural state, and required daily.
• C. They are synthesized by the body and do not require daily intake.
• D. They are stored in adipose tissue for years.

Answer: (B)

Water-soluble vitamins are absorbed in the small intestine and are not stored in the body in large amounts. They move freely in body fluids and are readily excreted by the kidneys into urine, so any excess is usually eliminated rather than stored. Because storage is limited, daily intake is typically needed to maintain adequate levels. In their natural state, they aren’t toxic at regular dietary levels, though very high supplement doses can cause adverse effects. This pattern—minimal storage, urinary excretion of excess, and a daily requirement—is what sets water-soluble vitamins apart from fat-soluble ones.