All of the following are true of B vitamins except A. are water soluble. B. serve as coenzymes. C. can be lost during food processing and preparation.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: D. Provide a source of energy.
Explanation:
B vitamins are a group of essential nutrients that play a vital role in maintaining various bodily functions, particularly in metabolism. They are water-soluble, meaning they dissolve in water and are not stored in large amounts in the body. This property makes them different from fat-soluble vitamins, which can be stored in the body’s fat tissues.
Here’s a breakdown of the key features of B vitamins and why the statement “provide a source of energy” is incorrect:
- Water Soluble (A): B vitamins are indeed water-soluble, which is a characteristic of many vitamins. Because they dissolve in water, any excess amounts of these vitamins are excreted through urine, making it necessary to regularly consume them through the diet.
- Serve as Coenzymes (B): B vitamins primarily function as coenzymes in various biochemical reactions, particularly those involved in converting food into energy. For example, B1 (thiamine) plays a key role in carbohydrate metabolism, B2 (riboflavin) helps in energy production, and B3 (niacin) is part of enzymes that are crucial in energy metabolism.
- Can Be Lost During Food Processing and Preparation (C): B vitamins are susceptible to being lost during the food preparation process, especially through cooking methods like boiling. Since they are water-soluble, they can leach into the water and be discarded. This is why it is important to avoid overcooking or excessive washing of foods rich in B vitamins.
- Do Not Provide Energy Directly (D): While B vitamins are crucial in converting the energy from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable forms by the body, they do not provide energy directly. They assist in metabolic processes that help extract energy from food, but they are not energy sources themselves. Hence, the statement about providing a source of energy is incorrect.
In conclusion, B vitamins are essential for energy production, but they don’t directly provide energy. Instead, they support the biochemical pathways that allow the body to extract energy from the food we eat.