How do water-soluble vitamins differ from fat-soluble vitamins?

Water-soluble vitamins differ from fat-soluble vitamins in that they typically are not stored in the body. Instead, they circulate in the bloodstream and any excess amounts are usually excreted through urine, becoming part of waste. This characteristic highlights the need for regular intake of water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C and the B-vitamins, to maintain adequate levels for bodily functions.

Fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, can be stored in the liver and fatty tissues for later use, which differentiates them from water-soluble counterparts. The absorption process also varies between these two types of vitamins, but the key distinction lies in their storage capabilities and how the body handles excess amounts.