Yellow-orange vegetables and fruits, such as squash and apricots, are important sources of which of the following?

• A. Simple sugars like fructose and glucose
• B. Starch
• C. Dietary fiber (cellulose)
• D. Carotenoids, which can be converted to vitamin A

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: Yellow-orange vegetables and fruits are known for their vibrant color, which is due to the presence of specific pigments. These pigments are biologically significant and often linked to health benefits.
2. Identify the key nutrient: The question mentions carotenoids, which are pigments responsible for the yellow-orange coloration in these foods. Carotenoids are precursors to vitamin A, meaning they can be converted into vitamin A in the body.
3. Clarify the role of carotenoids: Carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, are essential for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. They are not simple sugars, starch, or dietary fiber, which are other types of nutrients found in plants.
4. Differentiate carotenoids from other nutrients: Simple sugars like fructose and glucose provide energy, starch is a storage form of carbohydrates, and dietary fiber (cellulose) aids in digestion. None of these are related to the yellow-orange coloration or vitamin A production.
5. Conclude the explanation: Yellow-orange vegetables and fruits are rich in carotenoids, which are converted to vitamin A in the body. This makes them an important dietary source for maintaining overall health, particularly for vision and immune function.