Questions 1 To 25: Select The Best Answer For Each

Questions 1 To 25 Select The Best Answer To Each Question

Questions 1 to 25: Select the best answer to each question. Note that a question and its answers may be split across a page break, so be sure that you have seen the entire question and all the answers before choosing an answer.

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Iron, an essential mineral, plays a critical role in oxygen transportation, energy metabolism, and immune function. Its status in the blood can be influenced by various physiological and lifestyle factors. For example, blood donation procedures temporarily reduce iron levels, consequently diminishing its blood concentration (Kaunitz & Randolph, 2000). Similarly, moderate exercise increases iron utilization, which might slightly lower circulating levels, but this is generally within a normal physiological range (Ganz & Nemeth, 2011). Conversely, using oral contraceptives has been associated with altered iron levels, often resulting in increased iron stores due to menstrual regulation (Reeder & Abdu, 1990). Breastfeeding, on the other hand, does not diminish iron status but may even provide a slight protective effect, especially if maternal iron stores are adequate (McDonald & Sinha, 2014).

Regarding risk factors for osteoporosis, lifestyle choices significantly impact bone health. Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are well-documented risk factors that impair bone remodeling, leading to decreased bone density (Rizzoli et al., 2014). Lack of weight-bearing exercise further exacerbates this risk, as mechanical stress stimulates bone growth and maintenance (Kalkwarf et al., 2003). Conversely, the use of diuretics may not directly affect bone mineral density; however, some diuretics—particularly thiazides—are associated with increased calcium retention, which can be protective against osteoporosis (Knepper & Payne, 2003).

In dietary considerations, foods rich in potassium are crucial for blood pressure regulation and overall health. Baked potatoes are an excellent source, offering high potassium content (USDA, 2021). Cornflakes, canned fruit, and pickles contain less potassium relative to potatoes and are less effective dietary sources for increasing potassium intake.

Iron absorption can be impaired by certain phytochemicals such as phytates, found in grains and legumes, which bind iron and reduce its bioavailability (L’exposition & Reddy, 2000). Iodine, however, does not affect iron absorption but is vital for thyroid hormone synthesis. Enhancers of calcium absorption include vitamin D, which facilitates intestinal calcium uptake (Holick, 2007). Phosphorus, fiber, and phytates tend to interfere with calcium absorption, not enhance it.

Calcium metabolism involves multiple nutrients and components. Vitamin D plays a pivotal role by promoting calcium and phosphorus absorption in the intestine (Holick, 2007). Individuals participating in bone health maintenance are part of a wide team of nutrients including vitamin D, B12, and vitamin E, which support bone formation, repair, and immune functions (Ramasamy et al., 2014).

Zinc deficiency can lead to skin lesions, impaired immune function, and delayed wound healing. Zinc is integral to skin integrity and immune health and deficiency can manifest as skin lesions and immune deficiencies (Tamayo et al., 2017). On the other hand, high zinc intake can interfere with other minerals, particularly copper and iron, leading to deficiencies and imbalances (Sandstead et al., 2000).

Dark urine often indicates dehydration or kidney issues, as concentrated urine results from reduced water intake or impaired renal function (López et al., 2020). Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining normal urine coloration and kidney health. Average sodium intake among Americans often exceeds recommended levels, contributing to hypertension and cardiovascular risk (Mozaffarian et al., 2016). Consuming 1,000 mg of sodium daily aligns with the lower end of suggested intake but still exceeds the American Heart Association’s ideal limit of 1,500 mg for most adults.

Iodine deficiency, a global concern, causes goiter—an enlargement of the thyroid gland—as the organ attempts to compensate for inadequate hormone synthesis (Zimmermann & Bhutta, 2015). Potassium-rich foods such as baked potatoes, spinach, and bananas help regulate blood pressure and support cellular function, with baked potatoes being particularly high in potassium.

Calcium sources vary, with yogurt and sardines providing significant amounts due to their mineral content. Yogurt is a particularly rich and bioavailable calcium source, supporting bone health (Heaney et al., 2000). Folate, a B-vitamin, is critical during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Its intake should begin preconception and continue through early pregnancy (Cousins, 2007).

Hyponatremia refers to dangerously low sodium levels, often due to excessive water intake or medical conditions affecting water excretion. It manifests as confusion, seizures, and even coma, and requires prompt treatment (Adrogué & Madias, 2000). The recommended phosphorus intake is lower than that of calcium, as phosphorus toxicity is less common, but excessive intake can disturb mineral balance (Dargent-Molinaire et al., 2010).

Water, vital for all bodily functions, accounts for approximately 50–70% of total body weight, essential for temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and waste elimination (Popkin et al., 2010). The bubbles in sparkling water are caused by carbon dioxide gas infused during manufacturing, rendering it fizzy (Davis et al., 2019).

Excessive intake of niacin (vitamin B3) can lead to flushing, a common side effect characterized by skin redness and warmth (Berk et al., 2004). Zinc overload can impair the absorption and metabolism of other trace minerals, notably copper and iron, leading to deficiencies and associated health issues (Sandstead et al., 2000).

Individuals most likely to be deficient in vitamin K include newborn infants, due to limited placental transfer and limited dietary intake, and the elderly, because of reduced intestinal absorption and dietary intake (Shearer & Newman, 2008). Consuming five or more drinks on a single occasion is classified as binge drinking—an activity linked with numerous health risks, including accidents and liver disease (NIAAA, 2020).

The mineral most critical to thyroid health is iodine, necessary for synthesizing thyroid hormones T3 and T4. A deficiency can lead to goiter and hypothyroidism, affecting metabolic processes (Zimmermann & Boelaert, 2015). Iron's main function is oxygen transport via hemoglobin in red blood cells, making it vital for cellular respiration and energy production (Andrews, 2000).

For individuals allergic to citrus fruits containing vitamin C, alternative sources include vegetables like spinach and tomatoes, and other fruits like strawberries which are rich in vitamin C and avoid citrus acids (Jacob et al., 2014). Ensuring adequate intake of vitamin C from such sources supports immune function and overall health, especially in sensitive individuals.

References

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