Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of the hepatic portal system in digestion?

Accepted Answer

It carries nutrient-rich blood from the digestive tract to the liver for processing.

Question 2

A patient is unable to absorb vitamin B12 efficiently. Which gastric secretion is most likely deficient?

Accepted Answer

Intrinsic factor

Question 3

Which process is responsible for moving food through the esophagus to the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Peristalsis

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver?

Accepted Answer

Secretion of digestive enzymes into the duodenum

Question 5

A person with lactose intolerance experiences gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming dairy. What is the underlying cause?

Accepted Answer

Lack of lactase enzyme in the small intestine

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why peptic ulcers can develop in the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Infection with Helicobacter pylori damaging the mucus barrier

Question 7

Which of the following is the correct sequence of layers from the lumen outward in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract?

Accepted Answer

Mucosa, submucosa, muscularis, serosa

Question 8

Which of the following statements about the absorption of fats is correct?

Accepted Answer

Chylomicrons are formed in epithelial cells and enter lacteals.

Question 9

Which enzyme is responsible for the initial breakdown of starch in the mouth?

Accepted Answer

Salivary amylase

Question 10

A person consumes a meal high in protein. Which sequence correctly describes the enzymes involved in protein digestion from stomach to small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Pepsin → trypsin → chymotrypsin → carboxypeptidase

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of bile in digestion?

Accepted Answer

Bile emulsifies fats, increasing their surface area for enzyme action.

Question 12

Which of the following nutrients is absorbed primarily by active transport in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Monosaccharides

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of the large intestine?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of water and temporary storage of waste

Question 14

Which of the following statements about dietary recommendations is correct?

Accepted Answer

Whole foods with complex carbohydrates are preferred over simple sugars.

Question 15

A vegetarian wants to ensure they get all essential amino acids. Which strategy is most effective?

Accepted Answer

Combine different plant protein sources, such as beans and rice.

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why trans fats are considered unhealthy?

Accepted Answer

They raise LDL cholesterol and increase heart disease risk.

Question 17

Which of the following is a trace mineral required in the human diet?

Accepted Answer

Iron

Question 18

If a person’s basal metabolic rate (BMR) is 1,500 kcal/day and their total daily energy expenditure is 2,250 kcal/day, how many calories must they consume to maintain their current weight?

Accepted Answer

$$2,250$$

Question 19

Which of the following is a likely consequence of a diet severely deficient in fat-soluble vitamins?

Accepted Answer

Deficiency in vitamins A, D, E, and K

Question 20

A patient presents with symptoms of diarrhea, gas, and abdominal cramps after consuming milk. Which of the following best explains the physiological cause?

Accepted Answer

Fermentation of undigested lactose by intestinal bacteria

The Digestive System: Structure, Function, and Nutrition

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