CN Nutritional Science & Biochemistry 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which macronutrient provides the highest energy yield per gram?
- Proteins
- Carbohydrates
- Fats (Correct answer)
- Vitamins
Correct answer: Fats
Fats provide the highest energy yield per gram among macronutrients, offering approximately 9 calories per gram. This makes them a very efficient source of concentrated energy for the body. In contrast, carbohydrates and proteins each provide about 4 calories per gram.
Question 2: Which vitamin is essential for collagen synthesis and wound healing?
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C (Correct answer)
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
Correct answer: Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, acting as a crucial cofactor for the enzymes involved in collagen production. Collagen is a primary structural protein in connective tissues, skin, and blood vessels, making Vitamin C vital for wound healing and maintaining tissue integrity. A deficiency can impair the body's ability to repair itself.
Question 3: Which mineral is a key component of hemoglobin and essential for oxygen transport?
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Iron (Correct answer)
- Magnesium
Correct answer: Iron
Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Without sufficient iron, the body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to impaired oxygen delivery. This makes iron essential for overall energy and cellular function.
Question 4: What is the primary function of dietary fiber in the digestive system?
- Provides a source of quick energy
- Supports immune function
- Promotes bowel regularity and gut health (Correct answer)
- Acts as a primary fuel for muscles
Correct answer: Promotes bowel regularity and gut health
The primary function of dietary fiber in the digestive system is to promote bowel regularity and support gut health. Fiber adds bulk to stool, facilitating its passage through the intestines and preventing constipation. It also acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and contributing to a healthy microbiome.
Question 5: Which metabolic process converts glucose into energy in cells?
- Glycolysis (Correct answer)
- Gluconeogenesis
- Lipolysis
- Ketogenesis
Correct answer: Glycolysis
Glycolysis is the initial metabolic pathway that breaks down glucose into pyruvate, releasing a small amount of ATP (energy) in the process. This fundamental anaerobic process occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and is the first step in both aerobic and anaerobic respiration to generate cellular energy.
Question 6: Which fatty acid is classified as essential because it must be obtained from the diet?
- Saturated fatty acids
- Omega-3 fatty acids (Correct answer)
- Trans fats
- Cholesterol
Correct answer: Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are classified as essential because the human body cannot synthesize them and must obtain them through diet. These polyunsaturated fats, such as EPA and DHA, are crucial for brain function, heart health, and reducing inflammation.
Which macronutrient provides the highest energy yield per gram?