Which of the following statements is true regarding vitamin deficiency?

• A. Fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies are more likely than water-soluble vitamin deficiencies in people with chronic fat malabsorption.
• B. A balanced diet cannot prevent any vitamin deficiencies because supplements are always required.
• C. Vitamin deficiencies occur only when total calorie intake is too low.
• D. Vitamin deficiencies can develop from inadequate intake, malabsorption, or increased physiological needs, and symptoms may take weeks to months to appear.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) require fat for absorption, so deficiencies are more common in conditions with fat malabsorption.
2. Recognize that a balanced diet generally provides sufficient vitamins, and supplements are not always necessary unless specific deficiencies or increased needs exist.
3. Know that vitamin deficiencies are not solely caused by low calorie intake; they can also result from poor absorption, increased physiological demands, or inadequate intake of specific vitamins.
4. Be aware that vitamin deficiency symptoms often develop gradually, sometimes taking weeks to months to become apparent, due to the body's stores and compensatory mechanisms.
5. Conclude that the most accurate statement is that vitamin deficiencies can arise from inadequate intake, malabsorption, or increased needs, and symptoms may take time to manifest.