Fundamentals of Nutrition (Nutrients, Digestion and DRIs) Flashcards

How many calories does 1 gram of fat provide?

Answer: 9 calories

Fat provides 9 calories per gram. Carbohydrate and protein each provide 4, and alcohol provides 7. That makes fat the most energy-dense nutrient.

Which group lists only fat-soluble vitamins?

Answer: A, D, E, K

Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat-soluble. The body stores them in fatty tissue and the liver, so they can build up to toxic levels. The B vitamins and vitamin C are water-soluble.

A long-term deficiency of vitamin C causes which condition?

Answer: Scurvy

Scurvy comes from a lack of vitamin C. Signs include bleeding gums, poor wound healing and easy bruising. Rickets is linked to vitamin D, pellagra to niacin and beriberi to thiamin.

Which food is a complete protein, meaning it supplies all essential amino acids?

Answer: Eggs

Animal proteins such as eggs, meat, fish and dairy contain all nine essential amino acids in adequate amounts. Most single plant foods are short on at least one, which is why they are paired, for example rice with beans.

What is the main role of insoluble dietary fiber in the diet?

Answer: It promotes regular bowel movements

Insoluble fiber, found in whole grains, bran and vegetable skins, adds bulk to stool and helps prevent constipation. That matters especially for older residents in long-term care.

Eating which nutrient at the same meal best improves absorption of iron from plant foods?

Answer: Vitamin C

Vitamin C turns non-heme iron from plant foods into a form the body absorbs more easily. Calcium, tea and coffee taken at the same meal can reduce iron absorption.