NTA Fatty Acid Metabolism & Balance

Question 1

Which two fatty acids are considered truly 'essential' because the human body cannot synthesize them?

Accepted Answer

Linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid

Answer

Linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) must come from the diet. EPA, DHA, and arachidonic acid can be made from them, although conversion is often inefficient.

Question 2

Prostaglandins derived from arachidonic acid (series 2) generally have which effect?

Accepted Answer

Pro-inflammatory and pro-clotting

Answer

Series 2 prostaglandins from arachidonic acid promote inflammation, platelet aggregation, and pain. These are necessary for healing but harmful in excess. Series 1 and series 3 (from EPA) tend to be anti-inflammatory.

Question 3

Which hormone signals the gallbladder to release bile when dietary fat enters the duodenum?

Accepted Answer

Cholecystokinin (CCK)

Answer

CCK is released by the duodenal lining in response to fat and protein. It stimulates gallbladder contraction and pancreatic enzyme secretion, both of which are needed to emulsify and digest fats.

Question 4

Which vitamins depend on adequate dietary fat and bile flow for absorption?

Accepted Answer

Vitamins A, D, E, and K

Answer

Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble. They are absorbed with dietary fat in micelles, so poor fat digestion or low-fat diets can cause deficiencies.

Question 5

Which fat is most chemically stable for high-heat cooking?

Accepted Answer

Coconut oil or ghee

Answer

Saturated fats such as coconut oil and ghee have no double bonds that can oxidize, so they resist heat damage. Polyunsaturated oils (flax, walnut, corn) oxidize easily and form harmful byproducts.

(NTA) Nutritional Therapy Association Certification Practice Test

(NTA) Nutritional Therapy Association Certification Practice Test

NTA Fatty Acid Metabolism & Balance