Match each physiological condition to its causal nutrients deficiency. Drag and drop options on the right hand side and submit. For keyboard navigation SHOW MORE Vitamin D Sarcopenia Protein Collagen Breakdown Vitamin C Osteomalacia
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Here’s the correct match for the conditions and their associated nutrient deficiencies:
- Vitamin D → Osteomalacia
- Protein → Sarcopenia
- Collagen Breakdown → Vitamin C
Explanation:
- Vitamin D and Osteomalacia:
Osteomalacia is a condition where bones become soft, often leading to pain and weakness. This is due to a deficiency in vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in calcium and phosphate absorption, both necessary for strong bones. Without adequate vitamin D, the body cannot maintain proper bone mineralization, leading to softening and weakening of the bones. In children, a similar condition is called rickets, but in adults, it is referred to as osteomalacia. This condition is common in people who have limited exposure to sunlight or dietary intake of vitamin D. - Protein and Sarcopenia:
Sarcopenia refers to the age-related loss of muscle mass, strength, and function. One of the main causes of sarcopenia is inadequate protein intake or poor protein utilization in the body. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and without enough protein, the body cannot maintain muscle mass effectively. As individuals age, their ability to synthesize protein in response to muscle activity diminishes, and this contributes to the development of sarcopenia. Ensuring an adequate intake of high-quality protein can help delay or mitigate the effects of this condition. - Collagen Breakdown and Vitamin C:
Collagen is the primary structural protein in connective tissues such as skin, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis because it is involved in the enzymatic processes that stabilize and cross-link collagen fibers. A deficiency in vitamin C leads to scurvy, which is characterized by collagen breakdown, resulting in symptoms like skin bruising, gum disease, and joint pain. The body cannot produce vitamin C on its own, so it must be obtained from dietary sources like fruits and vegetables (especially citrus fruits).
These nutrient deficiencies are critical to recognize because they have significant impacts on bone health, muscle function, and connective tissue integrity. Proper nutrition is essential in preventing and managing these conditions.