Which of the following is true regarding vitamin deficiency?
A. Vitamin C deficiency is now common
B. Vitamin A deficiency is now common
C. Americans lack sodium on a regular basis
D. Americans lack potassium on a regular basis
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is D. Americans lack potassium on a regular basis.
Explanation:
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies have been widely studied, and each of the statements above requires a deeper look to assess its accuracy:
- Vitamin C deficiency is now common: This statement is generally false. While vitamin C deficiency (which leads to scurvy) was more prevalent in the past, especially among sailors and people with limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables, it is now quite rare in developed countries, including the U.S. The typical American diet provides sufficient vitamin C through fruits like oranges, strawberries, and vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli.
- Vitamin A deficiency is now common: This statement is also false in the context of the United States. Vitamin A deficiency is more common in developing countries, especially in children and pregnant women, due to insufficient access to foods rich in vitamin A (like liver, eggs, and dairy products) or beta-carotene-rich foods (like carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach). In the U.S., deficiencies are rare because of the variety of vitamin A sources available in the diet and fortified foods.
- Americans lack sodium on a regular basis: This statement is false. In fact, most Americans consume too much sodium, not too little. Sodium is primarily obtained from salt, and excessive sodium intake is a significant health concern in the U.S., contributing to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. The recommended daily intake of sodium is about 2,300 mg, but the average American diet exceeds this amount due to processed foods and restaurant meals.
- Americans lack potassium on a regular basis: This statement is true. Many Americans do not consume enough potassium, which is essential for maintaining normal muscle and nerve function, as well as heart health. The recommended intake of potassium is about 3,500-4,700 mg per day for adults, but most American diets fall short. This deficiency is primarily due to inadequate consumption of potassium-rich foods such as fruits (like bananas, oranges, and melons), vegetables (such as potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes), and legumes. Lack of potassium is linked to the high consumption of processed foods, which are often low in potassium but high in sodium.
Therefore, D is the correct answer as potassium deficiency is a more common issue among Americans.