Which vitamin is essential for collagen formation and acts as an antioxidant?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin D
• C. Vitamin E
• D. Vitamin C

Answer: (D)

Collagen formation relies on enzymes that add hydroxyl groups to proline and lysine residues in collagen. Vitamin C acts as a crucial cofactor for these enzymes, enabling proper hydroxylation and stable collagen fibers. Without enough vitamin C, collagen synthesis falters, leading to weak connective tissue and symptoms like poor wound healing and gum/skin issues (scurvy).

Vitamin C also functions as an antioxidant, donating electrons to neutralize reactive oxygen species and helping protect cells from oxidative damage. Among the options, only vitamin C combines the essential role in collagen formation with antioxidant activity, while the other vitamins don’t fulfill both roles.