branched chain amino acids leucine isoleucine and valine may be especially important for a patient with

ATI LPN

ATI Nutrition Proctored Exam 2019 Answers

1. Which condition may benefit from branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, and valine)?

A. cancer-related malnutrition
B. marasmus
C. cardiovascular disease
D. severe depression

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Branched chain amino acids, such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine, are essential in preventing muscle breakdown. Therefore, they may be particularly important for a patient with cancer-related malnutrition, where maintaining muscle mass is crucial. Marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition characterized by energy deficiency, not specifically related to cancer. Cardiovascular disease and severe depression do not have a direct correlation with the need for branched chain amino acids to prevent muscle breakdown.

2. Which of the following is one of the simplest amino acids?

A. Arginine
B. Valine
C. Lysine
D. Glycine

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is Glycine. Glycine is indeed one of the simplest amino acids as it consists of just a hydrogen atom as its side chain. Arginine, Valine, and Lysine are all more complex amino acids compared to Glycine, making them incorrect choices for this question.

3. The percentage of the total daily caloric intake for healthy persons that should be supplied by carbohydrate is:

A. 10% to 35%.
B. 20% to 35%.
C. 40% to 55%.
D. 45% to 65%.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 45% to 65%. Carbohydrates should contribute between 45% to 65% of the total daily caloric intake for healthy individuals to maintain a balanced diet. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they suggest lower ranges, which may not provide sufficient energy from carbohydrates for overall health and well-being.

4. What role do the amino acids methionine, tyrosine, and tryptophan play?

A. Forming neurotransmitters.
B. Blocking excess protein breakdown.
C. Increasing production of insulin and thyroxine.
D. Decreasing energy expenditure.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Forming neurotransmitters. Methionine, tyrosine, and tryptophan are important amino acids involved in the production of neurotransmitters in the body. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals across nerve cells, influencing various functions such as mood, memory, and muscle control. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because these amino acids do not primarily play a role in blocking protein breakdown, increasing insulin and thyroxine production, or decreasing energy expenditure.

5. Which chain length of fatty acids is most water-soluble and easily absorbed into the bloodstream?

A. Very long.
B. Long.
C. Medium.
D. Short.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Short-chain fatty acids are the most water-soluble and are more easily absorbed into the bloodstream. Very long, long, and medium-chain fatty acids are less water-soluble and are absorbed at a slower rate compared to short-chain fatty acids. Therefore, the correct answer is D.