Question

Which of the following is found in cod liver oil?
A. Vitamin C
B. Vitamin E
C. Vitamin A
D. Vitamin \[{B_1}\]

Answer 1

Hint: Cod liver oil is obtained from the liver of cod fish, Gadidae. Cod liver oil is rich in omega-\[3\] fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). It also contains two essential vitamins. Cod liver oil for human consumption comes as a pale, straw coloured capsule with a mild flavour. It improves the eyesight if taken regularly.

Complete explanation:
Option A Vitamin C: Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid. It can be made up of a variety of foods, particularly citrus fruits, and is also available as a nutritional supplement. It is used in the treatment of scurvy. Vitamin C is a good antioxidant. Cod liver oil does not contain Vitamin C.
Option A is incorrect.
Option B Vitamin E: Vitamin E constitutes a group of eight fat soluble compounds including four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. Vitamin E is a fat soluble antioxidant which protects cell membranes from reactive oxygen species. It acts as a free radical scavenger. Vitamin E is not present in cod liver oil.
Option B is incorrect.
Option C Vitamin A: Vitamin A is a group of unsaturated organic compounds that includes retinol, retinal and several provitamin A carotenoids. Vitamin A is important for growth and development, for a good immune system and for good vision. It is present abundantly in cod liver oil. This is the reason why cod liver oil is recommended for good eye health.
Option C is correct.
Option D Vitamin \[{B_1}\]: Vitamin B also known as thiamine is found in various foods and dietary supplements. Vitamin \[{B_1}\] is rich in whole grains, legumes, meats and fish. Thiamine deficiency can cause diseases like beriberi and wernicke encephalopathy. Vitamin \[{B_1}\] is not found in cod liver oil.
Option D is incorrect.

Therefore, Option C. Vitamin A is the correct answer.

Note:
Another vitamin found in cod liver oil is Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps in increasing intestinal absorption of calcium, magnesium and phosphate. The most important compounds of Vitamin D in humans are vitamin \[D3\] (cholecalciferol) and vitamin \[D2\] (ergocalciferol). Vitamin D can be synthesized by the human body with the help of sunlight.