V W X Y & Z
villi [vil eye]
Tiny, fingerlike projections on the inside surface of the small intestine that absorb nutrients from the food passing through the digestive system.
vitamin [vy ta men]
A chemical made in living organisms like plants that is important in small quantities for complete nutrition. An example is vitamin C that is obtained by eating citrus fruits.
Vitamin B6
A vitamin that plays an important part in the body's ability to breakdown and use energy sources, make red blood cells and antibodies, and leads to the normal functioning of the nervous system.
Vitamin E
A vitamin that helps protect cells from damage that may lead to cancer.
wavelength [wave lingth]
The distance from the peak of one wave to the peak of the next. Many forms of energy travel in waves that have very short wavelengths that scientists measure in nanometers or nm.
zinc [ zee nk]
A mineral necessary for the production of DNA and RNA, proteins, and insulin. The body also needs Zinc to use carbohydrates, fats, and protein correctly, and to dispose of carbon dioxide.