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. Why was receiving a white elephant considered a burden in ancient Siam?

A. People tried to avoid receiving it, as it was a burden.
B. It was a symbol of honor and wealth.
C. It was used in ceremonial processes.
D. The people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Receiving a white elephant in ancient Siam was considered a burden because the animal, being sacred, couldn't be used for work like other elephants. The recipient had to bear the cost of feeding the elephant large amounts of fruit and maintaining it in a lavish manner. The ruler's displeasure if the gift was not accepted graciously added to the pressure. This financial strain often led recipients to financial ruin. Therefore, people tried to avoid receiving a white elephant to prevent these financial consequences. Choice B is incorrect because the white elephant was not considered a symbol of honor and wealth but rather a burden. Choice C is incorrect as the white elephant was not primarily used in ceremonial processes but was a gift that came with financial responsibilities. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not mention that people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift, but rather the opposite.

3. Which might be a good title for the passage about Barefoot Running?

A. Everyone Should Run Barefoot.
B. How to Prevent Running Injuries.
C. Modern Road Surfaces Versus Barefoot Running.
D. The Debate over Barefoot Running.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The title 'The Debate over Barefoot Running' captures the main discussion in the passage.

4. What is the main idea of the passage about Aromatherapy—Fact or Fiction?

A. Aromatherapy is not a legitimate therapy by anyone’s standards.
B. Lemon and lavender are not healthy scents to inhale or use.
C. More studies are needed to determine if aromatherapy is truly beneficial.
D. Adding aromatherapy to regular treatment will help speed healing.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main idea of the passage revolves around the skepticism regarding the efficacy of aromatherapy. The mention of needing more studies to determine its true benefits suggests that the current findings are inconclusive. This aligns with choice C, which reflects the need for further research to validate the claims associated with aromatherapy.

5. What is one of the author’s primary purposes in writing this essay?

A. To persuade
B. To entertain
C. To analyze
D. To reflect

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The author primarily aims to persuade the reader of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and encourages ensuring sufficient omega-3 intake through diet.