Nutrition Principles Flashcards

Which nutrient deficiency is most commonly associated with night blindness and dry eyes?

Answer: Vitamin A deficiency

Vitamin A (retinol) is required for rhodopsin synthesis in rod cells; deficiency impairs dark adaptation, causing night blindness.

In menu planning for a cardiac-health-focused menu, which cooking fat would be most appropriate to feature?

Answer: Extra-virgin olive oil

Extra-virgin olive oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols, both associated with reduced cardiovascular disease risk.

What is the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) for dietary fat for adults?

Answer: 20–35% of total calories

The AMDR for fat is 20–35% of total caloric intake for adults, balancing energy needs with cardiovascular health recommendations.

Which enzyme in the stomach begins protein digestion by cleaving peptide bonds?

Answer: Pepsin

Pepsin, activated from pepsinogen by stomach acid (HCl), is the primary gastric protease that begins breaking down dietary proteins.

A customer requests a meal that is both high in iron and maximizes iron absorption. Which combination is best?

Answer: Lentil soup with a glass of orange juice

Vitamin C in orange juice enhances non-heme iron absorption from lentils by reducing ferric iron to the more absorbable ferrous form.

What does the term 'empty calories' refer to in nutrition?

Answer: Foods that provide energy with few or no essential nutrients

Empty calories refers to foods or beverages that supply energy (primarily from added sugars and solid fats) but provide minimal vitamins, minerals, or fiber.

Which food preparation technique is most effective for reducing acrylamide formation in starchy foods?

Answer: Toasting, roasting, or frying to a light golden color rather than deep brown

Acrylamide forms via the Maillard reaction between asparagine and reducing sugars at high heat; stopping cooking at a lighter color significantly reduces acrylamide levels.