Question

Deficiency of which of the following causes a disease called osteoporosis?

• A. Fat
• B. Vitamin
• C. Calcium
• D. Protein

Hint:

Link key nutrients to their most famous deficiency diseases: Calcium \(\rightarrow\) Osteoporosis, Iron \(\rightarrow\) Anemia, Vitamin C \(\rightarrow\) Scurvy, Vitamin D \(\rightarrow\) Rickets.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which the bones become brittle and fragile from loss of tissue, typically as a result of hormonal changes, or deficiency of certain nutrients.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Bones are living tissues that are constantly being broken down and replaced. Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone doesn't keep up with the loss of old bone.
- Calcium is the primary mineral that makes up the bone matrix, giving bones their strength and density. A lifelong lack of calcium plays a major role in the development of osteoporosis.
- While deficiency of certain vitamins (specifically Vitamin D, which is needed for calcium absorption) can also lead to osteoporosis, calcium is the direct building block that is deficient in the bone structure itself.
- Fat and protein deficiency are not the primary causes of osteoporosis.

Step 3: Final Answer:
A deficiency of calcium is a primary cause of osteoporosis.