Final answer:
Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, supports immune function, and is essential for collagen synthesis. Vitamin E protects cell membranes from oxidation, supports neurological function, and is involved in heme synthesis. Vitamin A is important for vision, cell differentiation, and immune health. Selenium supports antioxidant systems and is crucial for thyroid function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physiological Functions of Vitamin Antioxidants and Selenium
Vitamins C, E, and A are often referred to as the "big three" vitamin antioxidants due to their role in neutralizing free radicals and protecting the body from oxidative stress. Free radicals are molecules with unpaired electrons which make them highly reactive. These can arise from normal metabolic processes or from environmental factors such as pollution and radiation.
Vitamin C Functions
Antioxidant protection: Vitamin C helps in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Synthesis of collagen: It's essential for the production of collagen, which is important for skin, ligament, and bone health.
Immune system support: Vitamin C boosts immune system function.
Vitamin E Functions
Protecting cell membranes: Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant that prevents the oxidation of lipids in the cell membranes.
Supporting neurological function: It plays a role in the maintenance of muscle, nerve, and gonad functions.
Heme synthesis: Vitamin E is involved in the creation of heme, a component of hemoglobin.
Vitamin A Functions
Maintenance of vision: Vitamin A is critical for good vision.
Cell differentiation: It helps in keeping cells differentiated, which is important for normal cell function and growth.
Immune function: Vitamin A plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system.
Selenium Functions
Antioxidant defense system: Selenium supports the body's antioxidant capability by aiding the function of enzymes that defend against oxidative stress.
Thyroid function: It is important for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism.