NTP Blood Sugar Regulation & Metabolic Balance 2

Question 1

Reactive hypoglycemia is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Blood glucose drops occurring 2–4 hours after a high-carbohydrate meal

Answer

Reactive hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar drops too low 2–4 hours after eating, often due to an exaggerated insulin release in response to a carbohydrate-rich meal.

Question 2

How does soluble dietary fiber affect postprandial blood sugar regulation?

Accepted Answer

It slows gastric emptying and glucose absorption, reducing postprandial blood sugar spikes

Answer

Soluble fiber forms a viscous gel in the digestive tract that slows gastric emptying and the absorption of glucose, resulting in a more gradual rise in blood sugar and reduced insulin demand.

Question 3

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) reflects:

Accepted Answer

Average blood glucose control over the past 2–3 months

Answer

HbA1c measures the percentage of hemoglobin with glucose attached, reflecting average blood glucose levels over approximately 2–3 months — the lifespan of red blood cells.

Question 4

How does chronic elevation of cortisol affect blood glucose levels?

Accepted Answer

It raises blood glucose by stimulating gluconeogenesis and promoting insulin resistance

Answer

Cortisol promotes gluconeogenesis (new glucose production) in the liver and induces peripheral insulin resistance, both of which raise blood glucose levels as part of the stress response.

Question 5

Which critical role does the liver play in blood sugar regulation?

Accepted Answer

Storing glucose as glycogen and releasing it during fasting or exercise

Answer

The liver stores glucose as glycogen after meals and releases it through glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis during fasting or exercise to maintain stable blood glucose levels between meals.

(NTP) Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Practice Test

(NTP) Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Practice Test

NTP Blood Sugar Regulation & Metabolic Balance 2