Correct option is A
A deficiency of Vitamin A leads to night-blindness, a condition where an individual has difficulty seeing in dim light. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. The retina of the eye requires retinol (active Vitamin A) to produce rhodopsin, a pigment that absorbs light.
Information Booster:
- Sources of Vitamin A: Carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, fish oils, and eggs.
- Other Deficiency Symptoms: Dry eyes (xerophthalmia), corneal ulceration, and reduced immune response.
- Types of Vitamin A: Retinol (animal sources) and beta-carotene (plant sources).
- Daily Requirement: 600–700 micrograms for adults.
- Risk Groups: Pregnant women and children in developing countries.
- Prevention: Fortification of food with Vitamin A.
Additional Knowledge:
- Beri-Beri (b): Caused by Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) deficiency.
- Scurvy (c): Caused by Vitamin C deficiency.
- Bone Pain (d): Associated with Vitamin D deficiency.
Key Points:
- Night-blindness is often the first sign of Vitamin A deficiency.
- Severe cases can lead to blindness due to corneal damage.