NTP Sports & Performance Nutrition 3

Question 1

Which micronutrient deficiency most directly impairs oxygen-carrying capacity and therefore aerobic performance?

Accepted Answer

Iron

Answer

Iron is a core component of hemoglobin and myoglobin; deficiency reduces oxygen transport, causing decreased VO2 max and endurance.

Question 2

What role does vitamin D play specifically in athletic performance?

Accepted Answer

Supports muscle protein synthesis, strength, and immune function

Answer

Vitamin D receptors in muscle tissue influence protein synthesis pathways, and adequate status is associated with improved strength, power, and reduced injury risk.

Question 3

An NTP client doing twice-daily training sessions needs to maximize glycogen resynthesis between sessions. What is the most time-critical strategy?

Accepted Answer

Ingest 1.0–1.2 g carbohydrate per kg body weight within 30 minutes of finishing

Answer

Glycogen synthase activity peaks in the first 30–60 minutes post-exercise; high-dose carbohydrate intake during this window maximally accelerates resynthesis.

Question 4

Beta-alanine supplementation improves performance primarily by increasing which intramuscular buffer?

Accepted Answer

Carnosine

Answer

Beta-alanine is the rate-limiting precursor to carnosine, a dipeptide that buffers hydrogen ions in muscle, delaying acidosis during high-intensity efforts.

Question 5

How does sleep deprivation affect sports nutrition requirements according to an NTP framework?

Accepted Answer

Increases cortisol and ghrelin, disrupting recovery, body composition, and hunger regulation

Answer

Poor sleep elevates cortisol and ghrelin while suppressing leptin, increasing catabolism, promoting fat gain, and impairing muscle repair.

(NTP) Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Practice Test

(NTP) Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Practice Test

NTP Sports & Performance Nutrition 3