ISSA Nutritionist Practice Exam

What is the role of vitamin B12 in the body?

1. DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation

2. Bone health maintenance

3. Insulin production regulation

4. Fat metabolism support

The correct answer is: DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation

Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in several vital processes within the body, particularly in DNA synthesis and the formation of red blood cells. This water-soluble vitamin, also known as cobalamin, is essential for the proper functioning and development of brain and nerve cells, as well as for the synthesis of DNA, which is necessary for cell division and replication. Additionally, vitamin B12 is involved in the production of healthy red blood cells, which are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to conditions such as megaloblastic anemia, where the body produces abnormally large red blood cells that function poorly. In contrast, while bone health, insulin regulation, and fat metabolism are important aspects of overall health, they are not directly associated with the primary functions of vitamin B12. Therefore, the choice reflecting DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation highlights the most significant roles of this essential nutrient.