SCS Nutrition & Performance Optimization 4

Question 1

A female distance runner presents with low energy availability, loss of menstrual function, and low bone density. This triad is best managed by which primary intervention?

Accepted Answer

Increasing energy intake to restore energy availability

Answer

The Female Athlete Triad is driven by low energy availability; restoring adequate caloric intake is the primary treatment, which subsequently normalizes hormonal function and helps recover bone density.

Question 2

Which carbohydrate glycemic index strategy is recommended for the meal 3–4 hours before competition?

Accepted Answer

Low-to-moderate GI foods for sustained blood glucose

Answer

Low-to-moderate glycemic index carbohydrates consumed 3–4 hours pre-competition provide sustained energy release without the reactive hypoglycemia risk associated with high-GI foods.

Question 3

Creatine monohydrate loading (20 g/day for 5–7 days) primarily enhances performance in which type of exercise?

Accepted Answer

Repeated high-intensity bouts with short recovery periods

Answer

Creatine loading increases phosphocreatine stores, most benefiting repeated sprint efforts, heavy resistance training sets, and intermittent high-intensity activities requiring rapid ATP resynthesis.

Question 4

During a 90-minute soccer match, sweat rates average 1.5 L/hr. Which hydration strategy best maintains performance?

Accepted Answer

Consume a sports drink (6–8% carbohydrate + sodium) at regular intervals

Answer

A sports drink containing 6–8% carbohydrates and sodium replaces both fluid and electrolytes while delivering exogenous fuel, maintaining performance better than water alone during prolonged high-intensity activity.

Question 5

What is the primary role of iron in athletic performance, and which athlete population is at greatest risk for deficiency?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen transport via hemoglobin; female endurance athletes

Answer

Iron is a core component of hemoglobin and myoglobin, critical for oxygen delivery; female endurance athletes face the highest deficiency risk due to menstrual losses, dietary restriction, and foot-strike hemolysis.

(SCS) Sports Conditioning Specialist Certification Practice Test

(SCS) Sports Conditioning Specialist Certification Practice Test

SCS Nutrition & Performance Optimization 4