What are the characteristics of water-soluble vitamins?

Water-soluble vitamins are characterized by their ability to dissolve in water and subsequently be absorbed into the bloodstream. This property allows them to be easily transported throughout the body and utilized by various cells and tissues as needed. Because they dissolve in water, these vitamins are not stored in significant amounts within the body's tissues; instead, any excess is typically excreted through urine. This characteristic highlights the need for regular dietary intake of water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C and the B-complex vitamins, to avoid deficiencies.

In contrast, other types of vitamins, such as fat-soluble vitamins, are those that dissolve in fats and oils and are stored in the liver and fat tissues, which is not applicable to the nature of water-soluble vitamins. Additionally, while nutrients must be absorbed by the body to be of use, the statement regarding water-soluble vitamins indicates their capacity for absorption rather than an inability to be absorbed.