Which of the following is an antioxidant vitamin?

AIIMS CRE, SNO-2024

Applied Nutrition & Dietetics

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS CRE, SNO-2024

Explanation

Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a naturally occurring, potent fat-soluble antioxidant.
Its main function is to protect cell membranes from oxidative damage by neutralizing free radicals, a process known as preventing lipid peroxidation.
This antioxidant property is crucial for protecting tissues like red blood cells and nerve cells from damage.
The antioxidant function of Vitamin E is supported by selenium, which is a component of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase.

Option A: Vitamin K is not an antioxidant. Its primary role is related to blood coagulation.
Option C: Vitamin D's main function is to regulate calcium and phosphorus levels, which is essential for bone health. It is not classified as a primary antioxidant.
Option D: Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin essential for red blood cell formation and neurological function. It does not have significant antioxidant properties.

Visual 1: Diagram: The mechanism of action of antioxidants, illustrating how Vitamin E donates an electron to a free radical, thereby neutralizing it and protecting the cell membrane.
Visual 2: Infographic: A chart showing common food sources for the main antioxidant vitamins (A, C, and E), such as nuts and seeds for Vitamin E, citrus fruits for Vitamin C, and carrots for beta-carotene (Vitamin A precursor).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Functions of vitamins as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses often educate patients on the importance of a balanced diet rich in antioxidants to help prevent chronic diseases linked to oxidative stress, such as heart disease and certain cancers.
Assessment for vitamin deficiencies is a key nursing responsibility. For instance, a deficiency in Vitamin E, though rare, can manifest as hemolytic anemia (especially in premature infants) or neurological deficits, which a nurse should be able to recognize.
What if? If the patient was on an anticoagulant like warfarin, the nurse's primary concern would shift to Vitamin K intake. Warfarin works by inhibiting Vitamin K's action, so consistent dietary intake of Vitamin K is crucial to maintain therapeutic drug levels, highlighting the distinct and critical roles of different vitamins.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of the basic functions of different vitamins.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'antioxidant vitamin'.
Systematically review the primary function of each vitamin listed in the options.
Recall or deduce: Vitamin K is for clotting, Vitamin D is for bones/calcium, and Vitamin B12 is for blood cells/nerves.
Recall that Vitamin E's primary role is as a fat-soluble antioxidant.
Based on this process of elimination and recall, select Vitamin E as the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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