what is the main idea of the passage about super foods

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the main idea of the passage about Super Foods?

A. Super foods are low in calories but provide essential nutrients that have enormous health benefits.
B. U.S. supermarkets should make a point of stocking up on powerful super foods.
C. Blueberries are a super food that contains a natural inflammatory as well as important vitamins and minerals.
D. Doctors now believe that daily inclusion of super foods in the diet can reverse the aging process.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main idea emphasizes that superfoods are low in calories yet rich in essential nutrients that provide significant health benefits. This statement captures the overall essence of the passage, while the other options focus too narrowly or introduce unsupported claims, making A the correct answer.

2. What conclusion can the reader draw after reading the passage about The Sleep Workout?

A. Getting uninterrupted sleep is more important than getting enough sleep.
B. Insufficient sleep may result in an increased risk for obesity.
C. Human growth hormone is not essential for muscle development.
D. Leptin is essential for building muscle.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the passage highlights that insufficient sleep could lead to an increased risk of obesity. The passage emphasizes the importance of uninterrupted sleep in muscle development and mentions that inadequate sleep is linked to lowered levels of leptin, a hormone that controls appetite. This imbalance in leptin due to lack of sleep can lead to increased cravings for carbohydrates, contributing to obesity. Choice A is incorrect as the passage stresses the significance of both uninterrupted sleep and getting enough sleep for muscle growth. Choice C is incorrect because the passage clearly states that human growth hormone (HGH) is essential for muscle development. Choice D is incorrect as leptin is not essential for building muscle but is mentioned in the passage as a hormone related to controlling appetite and its link to inadequate sleep and obesity.

3. What is the meaning of the word moderation as used in the second paragraph?

A. Adequate amounts
B. Intervals of time
C. Excess
D. Variation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, moderation means consuming adequate amounts of unsaturated fats. The passage highlights that unsaturated fats like olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial when consumed in appropriate quantities. Choice B, intervals of time, is incorrect as it does not relate to the consumption of fats. Choice C, excess, is incorrect because moderation implies avoiding excess consumption. Choice D, variation, is unrelated to the context of consuming fats in appropriate amounts.

4. What is the overall tone of the essay about A Short History of the CDC?

A. Appreciative.
B. Awestruck.
C. Somber.
D. Disheartened.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The tone of the essay is appreciative, reflecting a recognition of the CDC's historical contributions to public health. The passage highlights the organization's evolution and its significant impact on disease control and prevention, suggesting a positive and respectful view of its work over the years, making A the correct choice.

5. Where is Thailand located?

A. Africa
B. Europe
C. South America
D. Asia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Thailand is located in Asia, not South America. Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It shares borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. The extract provided also mentions the country of Siam, which is now known as Thailand, indicating its location in Asia. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as Thailand is not located in Africa, Europe, or South America.