What vitamin deficiency is known to cause night blindness?

Night blindness, or the inability to see well in low light or darkness, is primarily associated with a deficiency of vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in the production of rhodopsin, a pigment found in the retina that is essential for vision in low light conditions. When there is insufficient vitamin A in the body, the production of this pigment is impaired, leading to difficulties in adjusting to dark environments, which manifests as night blindness.

Vitamin A is also important for overall eye health, and its deficiency can lead to more serious vision problems, including xerophthalmia, a condition that can ultimately result in total blindness if not addressed. Therefore, a lack of vitamin A significantly impacts the eyes' ability to function effectively in low-light situations, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate levels of this vital nutrient.