What is a characteristic of water-soluble vitamins?

Water-soluble vitamins are those that dissolve in water and are typically found in foods. A key characteristic of these vitamins is that they need to be replenished regularly, often on a daily basis, because they are not stored in significant amounts in the body. This means that excess amounts are generally excreted through urine rather than being retained, which reinforces the necessity of regular intake.

This daily requirement is contrasted with fat-soluble vitamins, which can be stored in the body's fatty tissues and liver for longer periods, allowing for less frequent replenishing. The nature of water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C and the B-vitamins, makes it crucial to include them in one’s daily diet to maintain optimal health and prevent deficiencies.