NTA Endocrine System & Hormone Balance

Question 1

Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, is produced by which gland?

Accepted Answer

Adrenal cortex

Answer

Cortisol is a glucocorticoid made in the adrenal cortex. The adrenal medulla produces epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Question 2

What does the 'HPA axis' refer to?

Accepted Answer

Hypothalamus–Pituitary–Adrenal

Answer

The HPA axis is the feedback loop through which the hypothalamus (CRH) signals the pituitary (ACTH), which then signals the adrenals to release cortisol during stress.

Question 3

Which mineral is required by the enzymes that convert inactive T4 to active T3?

Accepted Answer

Selenium

Answer

The deiodinase enzymes that convert T4 to T3 are selenium-dependent. Selenium deficiency can impair thyroid hormone activation even when iodine intake is adequate.

Question 4

Which molecule is the precursor for all steroid hormones, including cortisol, estrogen, and testosterone?

Accepted Answer

Cholesterol

Answer

Cholesterol is converted to pregnenolone, which is the starting point for every steroid hormone. This is why very low-fat or low-cholesterol diets can affect hormone production.

Question 5

Insulin is secreted by which cells?

Accepted Answer

Beta cells of the pancreas

Answer

Beta cells in the pancreatic islets release insulin in response to rising blood glucose. Alpha cells release glucagon.

(NTA) Nutritional Therapy Association Certification Practice Test

(NTA) Nutritional Therapy Association Certification Practice Test

NTA Endocrine System & Hormone Balance