Question 1

Which of the following statements best explains why elderly individuals are at greater risk for dehydration compared to younger adults?

Accepted Answer

Elderly individuals have a higher percentage of body fat, which contains less water.

Question 2

A patient is diagnosed with osteoporosis. Which combination of factors is most likely to have contributed to this condition?

Accepted Answer

Low calcium and vitamin D intake, lack of weight-bearing exercise, and smoking.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the regulation of water between the intracellular and extracellular compartments?

Accepted Answer

Intracellular water is regulated primarily by potassium (K) and phosphate (P), while extracellular water is regulated by sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl).

Question 4

A 25-year-old woman consumes 900 mg of calcium at breakfast. Based on absorption limits, how much calcium is likely to be absorbed from this meal?

Accepted Answer

No more than 500 mg, since the maximum absorbed at one time is 500 mg.

Question 5

Which of the following foods provides the highest bioavailability of calcium?

Accepted Answer

Kale, with a bioavailability of 40%.

Question 6

A patient presents with muscle cramps and low blood pressure after running a marathon on a hot day. Which mineral deficiency is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Sodium

Question 7

Which dietary approach is recommended for individuals with hypertension related to sodium toxicity?

Accepted Answer

DASH diet: low sodium, high potassium, increased fruits, and decreased processed foods.

Question 8

Which of the following statements about iron absorption is correct?

Accepted Answer

Heme iron from red meat is better absorbed than non-heme iron from plants.

Question 9

A vegan woman of child-bearing age is at increased risk for which nutritional deficiency, and why?

Accepted Answer

Iron deficiency, because plant-based non-heme iron is less bioavailable.

Question 10

Which of the following is a potential consequence of excessive selenium intake?

Accepted Answer

Brittle nails and hair

Question 11

A person is diagnosed with hemochromatosis. Which of the following best describes this condition?

Accepted Answer

A genetic disorder causing excessive iron absorption.

Question 12

Which of the following minerals is most closely associated with the prevention of tooth decay?

Accepted Answer

Fluoride

Question 13

A supplement containing 400 mg of magnesium is taken daily. What is a likely side effect?

Accepted Answer

Diarrhea

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why processed foods are a major contributor to sodium intake in the diet?

Accepted Answer

Processed foods often contain added sodium for preservation and flavor.

Question 15

Which mineral acts as a co-factor for DNA and RNA synthesis and supports immune function?

Accepted Answer

Zinc

Question 16

A person drinks coffee daily. Which statement best describes the effect of caffeine on hydration?

Accepted Answer

Caffeine is a mild diuretic but does not cause significant dehydration.

Question 17

Calculate the amount of calcium absorbed from 1 cup of milk (300 mg calcium) if the bioavailability is 25%.

Accepted Answer

$$300 	imes 0.25 = 75 mg$$

Question 18

Which hormone is responsible for retaining fluid in the body and reducing urine output?

Accepted Answer

ADH (Anti-diuretic hormone)

Question 19

A person with brittle nails and hair, but no other symptoms, is most likely experiencing toxicity from which mineral?

Accepted Answer

Selenium

Question 20

Which of the following scenarios would most likely increase iron absorption from a meal?

Accepted Answer

Consuming red meat (heme iron) with adequate stomach acid.

Water and Minerals: Essential Nutrients for Human Health

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards