# Explain why a diet that contains sufficient vitamins and minerals is important for maintaining good health. Refer to specific examples in your answer.

> WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) — 1.3.1 Diet and nutrition · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Vitamins and minerals are needed in small amounts / are micronutrients
2. A named vitamin or mineral and its correct function (e.g. vitamin C is needed to prevent scurvy / for healthy skin and gums; calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth; iron is needed to make haemoglobin / red blood cells)
3. A second named vitamin or mineral with its correct function (different from the example above)
4. A deficiency (lack) of a named vitamin or mineral leads to a named deficiency disease or health problem (e.g. lack of vitamin C causes scurvy; lack of iron causes anaemia; lack of calcium causes weak/brittle bones)

## Key terms

- [vitamins](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/vitamins)
- [minerals](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/minerals)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-diet-that-contains-7c3b2a26) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.