Nursing Elites

1. With respect to its effect on colon microflora, fiber is considered a:

• A. prebiotic.
• B. probiotic.
• C. functional food.
• D. protective agent.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: prebiotic. Fiber acts as a prebiotic by providing a food source for beneficial bacteria in the colon, promoting their growth and activity. This helps maintain a healthy balance of microflora in the gut. Choice B, probiotic, is incorrect as fiber itself does not contain live beneficial bacteria but rather supports their growth. Choice C, functional food, is too broad and doesn't specifically address fiber's role in promoting beneficial bacteria. Choice D, protective agent, is vague and does not directly relate to fiber's specific function in colon microflora.

2. Which type of carbohydrate helps maintain normal blood glucose levels during fasting periods?

• A. Glucose
• B. Galactose
• C. Dextrins
• D. Glycogen

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is glycogen. Glycogen is a type of carbohydrate stored in the body that is broken down into glucose to help maintain blood glucose levels during fasting periods. Glucose (choice A) is the simplest form of sugar and is a product of carbohydrate digestion, not the stored form like glycogen. Galactose (choice B) is a monosaccharide found in dairy products. Dextrins (choice C) are intermediate products of starch digestion and not directly involved in maintaining blood glucose levels during fasting.

3. The lining of the stomach and intestine is protected from self-digestion by:

• A. pepsinogen.
• B. bile.
• C. mucus.
• D. fat.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: mucus. Mucus forms a protective barrier that prevents the stomach and intestine from digesting themselves. Pepsinogen (choice A) is an inactive form of pepsin, a digestive enzyme, and does not protect the stomach lining. Bile (choice B) aids in the digestion and absorption of fats but does not protect the stomach lining. Fat (choice D) is a nutrient and energy source; it does not play a role in protecting the stomach and intestine from self-digestion.

4. What is the term for the action of biting, chewing, and breaking up ingested food into smaller particles?

• A. Peristalsis.
• B. Segmentation.
• C. Metabolism.
• D. Mastication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Mastication.' Mastication is the mechanical process of chewing that breaks down food into smaller particles. Peristalsis (choice A) is the involuntary constriction and relaxation of muscles in the gastrointestinal tract that moves food along. Segmentation (choice B) is the mixing movement of the digestive system that helps to break down food and mix it with digestive juices. Metabolism (choice C) refers to the chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life.

5. Foodborne illness may be caused by contamination of food with:

• A. pesticides.
• B. genetically modified ingredients.
• C. microorganisms.
• D. food additives.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: microorganisms. Microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, are common causes of foodborne illnesses. These pathogens can contaminate food during various stages of production, processing, or preparation. Choice A, pesticides, are chemicals used to control pests and are not a common cause of foodborne illnesses. Genetically modified ingredients, choice B, refer to foods derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and are not inherently linked to foodborne illnesses. Food additives, choice D, are substances added to food to preserve flavor or enhance taste and are not typically the primary cause of foodborne illnesses.

Similar Questions