Question

Match the vitamins given in Column-I with the deficiency disease they cause given in Column-II. Column-I Column-II (Vitamins) (Diseases) (A) Vitamin A (P) Pernicious anaemia (B) Vitamin \(\mathrm{B}_{12}\) (Q) Increased blood clotting time (C) Vitamin C (R) Xerophthalmia (D) Vitamin \(\mathrm{K}\) (S) Night blindness (T) Bleeding gums

Short answer

The correct matches between the vitamins and deficiency diseases are: (A) Vitamin A - (R) Xerophthalmia and (S) Night blindness (B) Vitamin B12 - (P) Pernicious Anemia (C) Vitamin C - (T) Bleeding gums (D) Vitamin K - (Q) Increased blood clotting time

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Relationship between Vitamins and Deficiency Diseases

First, we need to learn the relationships between the different vitamins and the deficiency diseases: Vitamin A deficiency causes Night blindness and Xerophthalmia (dryness and inflammation of the cornea). Vitamin B12 deficiency causes Pernicious anemia (decreased red blood cell count due to an inability to absorb vitamin B12). Vitamin C deficiency causes Scurvy (weakened immune system, slow wound healing, and bleeding gums). Vitamin K deficiency causes impaired blood clotting, leading to an increase in bleeding and bruising.

Matching the Vitamins and Deficiency Diseases

Now that we understand the relationship between the vitamins and deficiency diseases, let's match them properly: (A) Vitamin A - This vitamin is related to Night blindness and Xerophthalmia. Therefore, we can match Vitamin A with (S) Night blindness and (R) Xerophthalmia. (B) Vitamin B12 - This vitamin is related to Pernicious anemia. Therefore, we can match Vitamin B12 with (P) Pernicious Anemia. (C) Vitamin C - This vitamin is related to Scurvy, which presents with symptoms such as bleeding gums. Therefore, we can match Vitamin C with (T) Bleeding gums. (D) Vitamin K - This vitamin is related to the blood clotting process. A deficiency in Vitamin K can cause an increase in blood clotting time. Therefore, we can match Vitamin K with (Q) Increased blood clotting time. So, the correct matches are: (A) Vitamin A - (R) Xerophthalmia and (S) Night blindness (B) Vitamin B12 - (P) Pernicious Anemia (C) Vitamin C - (T) Bleeding gums (D) Vitamin K - (Q) Increased blood clotting time

Key concepts

Vitamin A Deficiency

Vitamin A is vital for maintaining healthy vision. It is specifically important for the proper functioning of the retina. When there is a deficiency of Vitamin A, it can lead to Xerophthalmia, a condition characterized by dryness and inflammation of the cornea. This condition can worsen and cause night blindness, where individuals find it difficult to see in low light or darkness.

The symptoms of Vitamin A deficiency initially include night blindness, but if not addressed, they can escalate to more severe issues like complete blindness. This vitamin is crucial not only for eyesight but also for maintaining skin health and supporting the immune system. Foods rich in Vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, and green leafy vegetables. Ensuring adequate intake of these foods can help prevent the deficiency.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell formation and neurological functions. Its deficiency is most commonly linked to Pernicious Anemia. This condition occurs when the body cannot absorb Vitamin B12 effectively, leading to reduced red blood cell production.

Pernicious Anemia can manifest through symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. People may also experience neurological symptoms like numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. Foods rich in Vitamin B12 include meat, dairy products, and fortified cereals. Those at risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency, such as vegetarians or individuals with absorption issues, may need to consider supplements to maintain adequate levels.

Vitamin C Deficiency

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, immune function, and antioxidant protection. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to Scurvy, a disease characterized by weakened immune system, slow wound healing, and bleeding gums.

The symptoms of Scurvy can appear within a few months of inadequate Vitamin C intake and include fatigue, swollen gums, and joint pain. Severe cases can result in anemia and even heart problems. To prevent Vitamin C deficiency, one should consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers. These foods are excellent sources of this vital vitamin.

Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K is essential for the synthesis of proteins involved in blood clotting. When there is a deficiency of Vitamin K, it can lead to increased blood clotting time, making individuals more prone to excessive bleeding and bruising.

This vitamin is crucial not only for clotting but also for bone health. Signs of deficiency might include easily bruising, bleeding gums, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli are excellent sources of Vitamin K. People on certain medications or with specific medical conditions may require additional Vitamin K to maintain proper coagulation.

Nutritional Biochemistry

Nutritional biochemistry is the science that studies the role of nutrients in the body and how they contribute to health and disease prevention. It helps us understand the biochemical pathways of various vitamins and how they interact with the body. This field of science integrates principles from biology and chemistry to explain how nutrients like vitamins are metabolized, absorbed, and utilized by our body systems. For example, it examines how the deficiency of certain vitamins can disrupt metabolic pathways leading to diseases like those mentioned above. Understanding nutritional biochemistry is vital for developing effective dietary plans and nutritional supplements, ensuring that individuals maintain optimal health and prevent deficiency-related diseases.