NTP Nutrient Deficiencies & Imbalances 2

Question 1

A client presents with peripheral neuropathy, confusion, and ophthalmoplegia. Which deficiency is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Thiamine (B1)

Answer

Thiamine deficiency causes Wernicke's encephalopathy, which classically presents with the triad of confusion, ophthalmoplegia, and ataxia.

Question 2

Which mineral deficiency is most closely associated with impaired wound healing and loss of taste (hypogeusia)?

Accepted Answer

Zinc

Answer

Zinc is essential for over 300 enzymatic reactions including collagen synthesis and taste receptor function, so deficiency impairs wound healing and causes hypogeusia.

Question 3

A vegan client shows macrocytic anemia, elevated homocysteine, and normal methylmalonic acid levels. Which deficiency is most consistent?

Accepted Answer

Folate

Answer

Elevated homocysteine with normal methylmalonic acid points to folate deficiency rather than B12 deficiency, which would also raise methylmalonic acid.

Question 4

Prolonged exclusive breastfeeding without supplementation puts an infant at greatest risk for deficiency of which nutrient?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin D

Answer

Human breast milk is low in vitamin D, so exclusively breastfed infants require supplementation to prevent rickets and deficiency.

Question 5

Which nutrient deficiency classically causes 'sundown' exacerbation of neurological symptoms and is associated with alcoholic cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

Magnesium

Answer

Magnesium deficiency, common in alcoholism and liver disease, causes neuromuscular hyperexcitability, anxiety, and worsening symptoms that can parallel circadian changes.

(NTP) Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Practice Test

(NTP) Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Practice Test

NTP Nutrient Deficiencies & Imbalances 2