International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

A deficiency of which vitamin is associated with causing scurvy?

1. Vitamin A

2. Vitamin D

3. Vitamin E

4. Vitamin C

The correct answer is: Vitamin C

Scurvy is a disease that arises from a deficiency of vitamin C, which is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a key protein in connective tissues. Collagen is crucial for maintaining the integrity of skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage. When there is insufficient vitamin C in the diet, the body cannot produce adequate collagen, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, swelling, and the characteristic gum disease that is often associated with scurvy. Vitamin C also plays an important role in the immune system and acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage. This water-soluble vitamin is primarily obtained through fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, and broccoli. While vitamins A, D, and E are important for various bodily functions, they do not have a direct link to the onset of scurvy. Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune function, and skin health; vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health; and vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and helps with immune function. However, none of these vitamins are involved in collagen synthesis or related to the symptoms and health issues caused by scurvy.