Which vitamin is primarily associated with vision?

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Vitamin A is primarily associated with vision due to its critical role in the formation of visual pigments in the retina of the eye. Specifically, retinal, a derivative of vitamin A, combines with the protein opsin to form rhodopsin, which is essential for photoreception, especially in low-light conditions. This process is vital for the visual cycle, allowing the eyes to detect light and convert it into neural signals that are sent to the brain.

Furthermore, vitamin A is also important for maintaining the health of the cornea and is involved in the proper functioning of the conjunctival membranes. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to a condition known as night blindness and can ultimately result in more severe eye problems, underlining its significance in vision health.

While other vitamins like B-12, D, and E have important roles in the body, they are not primarily linked with vision to the extent that vitamin A is. B-12 is crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function, vitamin D is mainly associated with bone development and immune system support, and vitamin E acts as an antioxidant but does not have a direct role in visual processes. Therefore, vitamin A stands out as the key vitamin connected with vision.

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