Question 1

Which of the following statements best explains why the bioavailability of nonheme iron from plant foods is generally lower than that of heme iron from animal foods?

Accepted Answer

Nonheme iron binds to compounds such as oxalates and polyphenols, which inhibit its absorption.

Question 2

A patient presents with fatigue, pale skin, and a sore tongue. Blood tests reveal microcytic, hypochromic red blood cells. Which nutrient deficiency is most likely responsible for these symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Iron

Question 3

Which trace mineral acts as a cofactor for the enzyme superoxide dismutase, is involved in collagen formation, and is required for the oxidation of iron to its ferric form ($Fe^{3+}$)?

Accepted Answer

Copper

Question 4

A vegetarian woman aged 30 is planning her diet. If the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for iron for women her age is 18 mg/day, how much iron should she aim to consume daily?

Accepted Answer

$32.4 \ \mathrm{mg}$

Question 5

Which of the following is a primary metabolic function of selenium in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Component of glutathione peroxidase, protecting cells from free radical damage

Question 6

A child accidentally consumes a large quantity of iron supplements. Which of the following is the most immediate health risk?

Accepted Answer

Acute poisoning leading to nausea, vomiting, and potentially death

Question 7

Which trace mineral is NOT considered essential for normal growth and development but plays a critical role in the prevention of dental caries?

Accepted Answer

Fluoride

Question 8

A patient with Wilson's disease is unable to excrete which trace mineral, leading to its accumulation and potential liver and brain damage?

Accepted Answer

Copper

Question 9

Which of the following dietary factors would most likely enhance the absorption of nonheme iron from a meal containing spinach?

Accepted Answer

A serving of orange slices (vitamin C)

Question 10

A deficiency in which trace mineral is most likely to result in the development of goiter and, if severe during pregnancy, cretinism in the offspring?

Accepted Answer

Iodine

Question 11

Which trace mineral is required for the activation of over 100 metalloenzymes, is important for DNA and RNA synthesis, and may reduce the duration of the common cold?

Accepted Answer

Zinc

Question 12

A 45-year-old male is diagnosed with hemochromatosis. Which of the following dietary recommendations is most appropriate for him?

Accepted Answer

Avoid iron supplements and limit intake of red meat

Question 13

Which trace mineral is a cofactor for enzymes involved in carbohydrate, fat, and amino acid metabolism, and excessive exposure to environmental sources can cause symptoms resembling Parkinson's disease?

Accepted Answer

Manganese

Question 14

A patient with a history of high sugar intake is found to have increased chromium excretion in the urine. Which metabolic process is most likely to be affected?

Accepted Answer

Insulin effectiveness and glucose metabolism

Question 15

Which of the following minerals is most directly involved in the formation of fluoroapatite, thereby strengthening tooth enamel?

Accepted Answer

Fluoride

Question 16

A patient presents with delayed wound healing, hair loss, and impaired taste. Which trace mineral deficiency is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Zinc

Question 17

Which trace mineral is a cofactor for enzymes involved in the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids and has a tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 2 mg/day?

Accepted Answer

Molybdenum

Question 18

A person consuming a diet high in phytates and fiber may be at increased risk for deficiency of which two trace minerals due to reduced absorption?

Accepted Answer

Iron and zinc

Question 19

Which of the following is a distinguishing feature of macrocytic anemia compared to microcytic anemia?

Accepted Answer

Macrocytic anemia is characterized by abnormally large red blood cells and is often due to folate or vitamin B$_{12}$ deficiency.

Question 20

Which of the following minerals is NOT currently considered an essential nutrient for humans but may play a role in bone formation in animals?

Accepted Answer

Silicon

Trace Minerals: Functions, Sources, Deficiency, and Toxicity

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