Question

Match each statement to a vitamin or mineral in the key. a. calcium b. vitamin K c. sodium d. iodine e. vitamin \(A\) Needed for night vision

Short answer

The statement "Needed for night vision" matches with Vitamin A. The correct option is e. Vitamin A.

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the vitamin or mineral needed for night vision

To identify which vitamin or mineral is essential for night vision, we need to look at the options given. The options are calcium, vitamin K, sodium, iodine, and vitamin A.

Matching the correct vitamin or mineral

Among the given options, Vitamin A is the essential nutrient responsible for night vision. It is a crucial component of the eye's light-sensitive cells called rods, which help us see in low light conditions.

Conclusion

The statement "Needed for night vision" matches with Vitamin A. The correct option is e. Vitamin A.

Key concepts

Vitamin A

Vitamin A plays a pivotal role in maintaining healthy vision, especially in dim light scenarios. This fat-soluble vitamin is a crucial component involved in the production of rhodopsin, a pigment found in the retinal receptors known as rods. These rods are essential for low-light vision and adjusting our eyesight when we move from bright to dark environments.

A deficiency in Vitamin A can lead to conditions such as night blindness, where individuals have difficulty seeing in dark places. It can also contribute to more severe eye disorders if the deficiency persists over time. Foods rich in Vitamin A include liver, dairy products, and some vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes which contain beta-carotene, a precursor that the body can convert to Vitamin A.

Vision Health

Sustaining healthy vision goes beyond simply having the ability to see clearly; it encompasses the full functionality of the eyes under various conditions. This includes the presence of adequate light-sensitive cells (photoreceptors) in the retina, clear lenses, and overall eye health.

Good nutrition is paramount to eye health, and it involves a balanced intake of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Besides Vitamin A, other nutrients important for vision include Vitamin C, Vitamin E, lutein, zeaxanthin, and Omega-3 fatty acids. Together, these compounds protect the eyes from harmful light exposure, reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, and contribute to the structural integrity of eye tissues.

Nutritional Science

Nutritional science is the study of how substances in foods interact with one another and with our bodies to affect health and disease states. This field delves into the effects that various nutrients and diets have on body functions, including vision. It applies knowledge from diverse disciplines such as biochemistry, physiology, and public health to understand the intricate balance required for maintaining health.

Within the context of vision health, nutritional science investigates the specific roles of vitamins and minerals in sustaining and improving eyesight. By understanding these relationships, individuals can make informed dietary choices to support their vision and overall health. It is the information gleaned from nutritional science that informs us about the importance of Vitamin A for night vision and guides dietary recommendations for maintaining optimal eye health.