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Which of these micronutrients has a primary function as an antioxidant?

1) Vitamin A
2) Vitamin C
3) Vitamin D
4) Vitamin E

User Quexer
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Vitamins A, C, and E all have antioxidant properties, but Vitamin E is particularly recognized for its role as a potent antioxidant, being vital in protecting cells from oxidative damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary function of certain micronutrients is to act as antioxidants. These substances protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. Among the vitamins you mentioned, Vitamin E, chemically known as a-tocopherol, is particularly noteworthy for its potent antioxidant properties. It helps in scavenging harmful by-products of metabolism such as free radicals. Moreover, Vitamin E protects dietary fats from oxidation, thus preventing them from becoming rancid. Vitamin C is also a well-recognized antioxidant and, along with Vitamin A and beta-carotene, performs crucial roles in protecting the body from oxidative stress.

Considering the options provided in the question, while Vitamins A, C, and E all have antioxidant properties, if we must pick the one with a primary function as an antioxidant, we would choose Vitamin E.

User Brendalis
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