ATC Nutrition 3

Question 1

A wrestler is cutting weight rapidly for competition. Which immediate health risk is MOST concerning to the athletic trainer?

Accepted Answer

Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance

Answer

Rapid weight cutting frequently causes severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and death.

Question 2

Which macronutrient provides the most calories per gram?

Accepted Answer

Fat

Answer

Fat provides 9 kcal per gram, more than carbohydrates and protein (4 kcal/g each) or alcohol (7 kcal/g).

Question 3

An endurance athlete develops muscle cramps late in a marathon. Besides dehydration, which nutritional factor is MOST likely contributing?

Accepted Answer

Sodium depletion

Answer

Sodium depletion from heavy sweating disrupts neuromuscular function and is a key contributor to exercise-associated muscle cramping.

Question 4

What is the recommended carbohydrate intake during exercise lasting more than 2.5 hours?

Accepted Answer

60–90 g/hour

Answer

Research supports 60–90 g/hour of carbohydrates (using multiple transportable carbohydrates) for exercise lasting longer than 2.5 hours.

Question 5

Which mineral is critical for oxygen transport in red blood cells and is commonly deficient in distance runners?

Accepted Answer

Iron

Answer

Iron is required for hemoglobin synthesis; distance runners are at risk due to foot-strike hemolysis, GI losses, and increased demand.

(ATC) Certified Athletic Trainer Practice Test