The crew of an eighteenth century ship sailing from Asia has eaten mostly rice during the voyage. Some of the crew members start experiencing vision difficulties and an increased susceptibility to infection. The most likely cause of these symptoms is a deficiency in A) vitamin B₁₂. B) vitamin C. C) $\beta$-carotene. D) glyphosate. E) oblimersen.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described are indicative of a vitamin A deficiency, which can occur when there is a lack of beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A) in the diet. Rice lacks beta-carotene, leading to vision problems and increased infection susceptibility.

The Crew of an Eighteenth Century Ship Sailing from Asia β\betaβ

The Crew of an Eighteenth Century Ship Sailing from Asia $\beta$