NANP Board Practice Exam

Which vitamin is crucial for collagen synthesis?

1. Vitamin A

2. Vitamin B6

3. Vitamin C

4. Vitamin D

The correct answer is: Vitamin C

Collagen is a vital protein in the body that provides structure to skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments, and vitamin C plays a crucial role in its synthesis. This vitamin is essential for the hydroxylation of proline and lysine, amino acids that are necessary for the stability and health of collagen fibers. Without adequate vitamin C, the body cannot effectively produce collagen, leading to potential issues such as weakened connective tissues and increased susceptibility to injuries. Other vitamins listed, while important for various bodily functions, do not have the same direct impact on collagen synthesis as vitamin C. Vitamin A is mainly involved in vision and immune function, vitamin B6 is critical for metabolism and brain health, and vitamin D plays a significant role in calcium absorption and bone health. However, none of these vitamins directly contribute to the formation of collagen in the way that vitamin C does.