Question 1

Which of the following statements best explains why minerals are considered inorganic nutrients?

Accepted Answer

They do not contain carbon and remain intact during digestion.

Question 2

A patient is diagnosed with muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, and paralysis after prolonged vomiting. Which mineral deficiency is most likely responsible for these symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Potassium

Question 3

Which of the following factors would most likely increase the bioavailability of iron from a meal?

Accepted Answer

Consuming the meal with vitamin C-rich foods

Question 4

A 55-year-old woman is concerned about osteoporosis. Which combination of dietary and lifestyle factors would best help her maintain bone mineral density?

Accepted Answer

High calcium intake, weight-bearing exercise, and adequate vitamin D

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the role of aldosterone in sodium balance?

Accepted Answer

It stimulates the kidneys to reabsorb sodium when blood levels are low.

Question 6

A food label states that a product contains 120 mg of sodium per serving. According to FDA labeling, this product can be classified as:

Accepted Answer

Low sodium

Question 7

Which mineral is a major component of hydroxyapatite, the crystalline structure that gives strength to bones and teeth?

Accepted Answer

Calcium

Question 8

A patient with chronic kidney disease is at risk for which mineral toxicity if consuming large amounts of processed foods and cola beverages?

Accepted Answer

Phosphorus

Question 9

Which of the following is a metabolic function of magnesium?

Accepted Answer

Helps lower blood pressure and is required for over 300 enzymatic reactions

Question 10

A person consumes a diet high in sodium and low in potassium. Which health risk is most likely to increase as a result?

Accepted Answer

Hypertension

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the difference between major and trace minerals?

Accepted Answer

Major minerals are needed in amounts greater than 100 mg/day, while trace minerals are needed in less than 20 mg/day.

Question 12

Which of the following scenarios is most likely to result in hyponatremia?

Accepted Answer

Drinking large amounts of water in a short period during endurance exercise

Question 13

Which mineral is a major intracellular cation and helps maintain fluid and pH balance, muscle contraction, and nerve impulse conduction?

Accepted Answer

Potassium

Question 14

A patient presents with shallow breathing, muscle weakness, and twitching after prolonged vomiting. Which mineral deficiency is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Chloride

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why excessive phosphorus intake with low calcium intake can decrease bone mass?

Accepted Answer

High phosphorus stimulates calcium resorption from bone to maintain blood calcium levels.

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of sulfate in the body?

Accepted Answer

Gives 3-D shape to proteins by being part of methionine and cysteine

Question 17

A 30-year-old healthy adult has a DEXA T-score of -2.8. According to the World Health Organization criteria, this person is classified as having:

Accepted Answer

Osteoporosis

Question 18

Which of the following minerals is most likely to be found in high amounts in processed foods and is a major contributor to hypertension in susceptible individuals?

Accepted Answer

Sodium

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the effect of vitamin D on calcium absorption?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin D enhances calcium absorption in the small intestine.

Question 20

A patient is taking a magnesium supplement of 500 mg/day. Which of the following symptoms would most likely indicate magnesium toxicity?

Accepted Answer

Diarrhea, cramps, and nausea

Major Minerals: Functions, Sources, Bioavailability, and Health Implications

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