Which vitamin deficiency can lead to ridged nails?

• A. Vitamin C
• B. Vitamin A
• C. Vitamin D
• D. Vitamin B12

Answer: (B)

A deficiency in vitamin A can indeed lead to ridged nails, among other symptoms. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. It is essential for cell production and growth, and it helps in the development of keratin, a protein that forms the structure of nails. When the body lacks this vitamin, it can lead to changes in nail texture and appearance, including the formation of ridges.

In contrast, while the other vitamins mentioned are important for overall health, their deficiencies are not typically associated with the specific symptom of ridged nails. For example, vitamin C is primarily linked to collagen production and immune function; vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health; and vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell formation and neurological function. However, none of these directly influences nail health in the same way that vitamin A does regarding the formation of ridged nails.