Nutrient Requirements

Question 1

What is the primary function of carbohydrates in the human body?

Answer 1

Carbohydrates provide energy for the body’s cells, particularly the brain and muscles.

Question 2

Name the essential fatty acids required in the human diet.

Answer 2

Linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3).

Question 3

What role do proteins play in nutrient requirements?

Answer 3

Proteins are necessary for tissue growth, repair, and maintenance, and they serve as enzymes and hormones.

Question 4

Which vitamin is essential for calcium absorption and bone health?

Answer 4

Vitamin D.

Question 5

What is the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for dietary fiber for adults?

Answer 5

25-30 grams per day.

Question 6

Which mineral is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood?

Answer 6

Iron.

Question 7

Name the water-soluble vitamins.

Answer 7

Vitamin C and the B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12).

Question 8

How does vitamin C contribute to immune function?

Answer 8

Vitamin C enhances the function of the immune system by stimulating the production and function of white blood cells.

Question 9

What is the importance of vitamin A in vision?

Answer 9

Vitamin A is essential for the formation of rhodopsin, a pigment in the retina that helps with night vision.

Question 10

Which mineral is necessary for thyroid hormone production?

Answer 10

Iodine.

Question 11

What are the main dietary sources of vitamin D?

Answer 11

Fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and sunlight exposure.

Question 12

How does vitamin E function as an antioxidant?

Answer 12

Vitamin E protects cell membranes from oxidative damage by scavenging free radicals.

Question 13

What is the primary role of vitamin K in the body?

Answer 13

Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone metabolism.

Question 14

Name a key function of magnesium in the body.

Answer 14

Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including energy production and protein synthesis.

Question 15

Which vitamin deficiency can lead to pernicious anemia?

Answer 15

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin).

Question 16

What is the significance of folate during pregnancy?

Answer 16

Folate is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, which is critical during fetal development.

Question 17

Which vitamin is essential for the synthesis of collagen?

Answer 17

Vitamin C is required for the hydroxylation of proline and lysine residues in collagen synthesis.

Question 18

Name the trace elements essential for human health.

Answer 18

Iron, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, iodine, fluoride, and chromium.

Question 19

How does zinc contribute to wound healing?

Answer 19

Zinc plays a critical role in DNA synthesis, cell division, and protein synthesis, which are vital for wound healing.

Question 20

What is the role of selenium in the body?

Answer 20

Selenium is a component of selenoproteins, which have antioxidant properties and play a role in thyroid hormone metabolism.

Question 21

Which vitamin is involved in energy metabolism and red blood cell production?

Answer 21

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin).

Question 22

What is the RDA for iron in adult women of childbearing age?

Answer 22

18 mg per day.

Question 23

Name the macrominerals required by the human body.

Answer 23

Calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, sodium, chloride, and magnesium.

Question 24

How does potassium help regulate blood pressure?

Answer 24

Potassium helps balance the effects of sodium, aiding in the regulation of blood pressure.

Question 25

What are the symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency?

Answer 25

Symptoms include dermatitis, glossitis, depression, confusion, and convulsions.

Question 26

Name a food source high in omega-3 fatty acids.

Answer 26

Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines.

Question 27

Which vitamin is crucial for the maintenance of healthy skin and mucous membranes?

Answer 27

Vitamin A.

Question 28

What is the function of vitamin B12 in the nervous system?

Answer 28

Vitamin B12 is necessary for the maintenance of myelin sheaths around nerve fibers.

Question 29

How does dietary calcium affect bone density?

Answer 29

Calcium is a primary component of bone, and adequate intake helps maintain bone density and prevent osteoporosis.

Question 30

Which nutrient is essential for the synthesis of neurotransmitters?

Answer 30

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine).

Question 31

Name the condition caused by severe vitamin D deficiency in children.

Answer 31

Rickets.

Question 32

What is the role of iodine in cognitive development?

Answer 32

Iodine is crucial for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which are important for brain development and cognitive function.

Question 33

Which vitamin acts as a cofactor in amino acid metabolism?

Answer 33

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine).

Question 34

How does biotin support metabolic functions?

Answer 34

Biotin acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Question 35

What is the impact of vitamin E deficiency on the body?

Answer 35

Vitamin E deficiency can lead to hemolytic anemia, neurological problems, and retinopathy.

Question 36

Name a dietary source rich in vitamin K.

Answer 36

Leafy green vegetables such as kale and spinach.

Question 37

How does folic acid prevent neural tube defects?

Answer 37

Folic acid is essential for the proper closure of the neural tube during fetal development, preventing defects like spina bifida.

Question 38

Which mineral is involved in the regulation of muscle and nerve function?

Answer 38

Magnesium.

Question 39

What is the recommended daily intake of water for adults?

Answer 39

About 3.7 liters (for men) and 2.7 liters (for women) per day from all beverages and foods.

Question 40

How do antioxidants protect the body from oxidative stress?

Answer 40

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.