GED Science TestLife ScienceEasy
A client is experiencing symptoms of chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, and impaired bone health. Blood tests reveal low levels of a particular vitamin that is crucial for calcium absorption and bone mineralization. Which vitamin deficiency is most likely causing these symptoms?
- AVitamin A
- BVitamin E
- CVitamin D
- DVitamin C
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium in the intestines and for maintaining proper bone health. A deficiency can lead to conditions like rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, characterized by weakened bones, muscle weakness, and fatigue.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune function, not primarily calcium absorption.
- B. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, important for skin and immune function, but not directly involved in calcium metabolism.
- D. Vitamin C is vital for collagen synthesis and immune health, not bone mineralization via calcium absorption.
Vitamin D Function
A fat-soluble vitamin primarily responsible for regulating calcium and phosphate levels in the body, essential for bone health.
- Aids in calcium absorption in the gut
- Maintains phosphate levels
- Crucial for bone mineralization and growth
Memory trick: DEAR BONES: Vitamin D Enables Absorption and Regulation for Bones