Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of red blood cells in the human body?

Accepted Answer

They transport oxygen from the lungs to all cells in the body.

Question 2

A patient presents with fatigue, pale skin, and shortness of breath. Blood tests reveal low hemoglobin and small, pale red blood cells. Which nutritional deficiency is most likely responsible for these symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Iron deficiency

Question 3

Which vitamin is required as a coenzyme for enzymes that break down glucose and is also necessary for RNA, DNA, and ATP synthesis?

Accepted Answer

Thiamine (Vitamin B1)

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why fat is a more efficient storage form of energy than glycogen?

Accepted Answer

Fat is more compact and stores more energy per gram than glycogen.

Question 5

A person with a deficiency in which vitamin is at increased risk for neural tube defects in offspring during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Folate (Vitamin B9)

Question 6

Which mineral is a key component of hemoglobin and is most commonly deficient worldwide, especially in infants, children, and women?

Accepted Answer

Iron

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the process of gluconeogenesis?

Accepted Answer

The synthesis of glucose from certain amino acids, primarily in the liver

Question 8

A patient with a history of alcohol use disorder presents with dry, scaly skin, mouth sores, and light sensitivity. Which vitamin deficiency is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

Question 9

Which of the following is a critical function of vitamin K in the body?

Accepted Answer

Blood clotting

Question 10

Which metabolic pathway is responsible for the breakdown of fatty acids to generate energy?

Accepted Answer

$$\beta-$$oxidation

Question 11

A patient is diagnosed with macrocytic anemia and neurological symptoms. Blood tests reveal low levels of both vitamin B12 and folate. Which process is most directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of DNA in red blood cell precursors

Question 12

Which mineral is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormone and, when deficient, can lead to goiter and cretinism?

Accepted Answer

Iodine

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the role of magnesium in metabolism?

Accepted Answer

It is a cofactor in hundreds of metabolic reactions, including all reactions that synthesize or require ATP.

Question 14

Which of the following interventions is NOT recommended by the World Bank to combat iron deficiency anemia in developing countries?

Accepted Answer

Encouraging exclusive consumption of plant-based diets

Question 15

Which vitamin deficiency is associated with the disease pellagra, characterized by diarrhea, dermatitis, dementia, and sometimes death?

Accepted Answer

Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Question 16

Which of the following statements about catabolic and anabolic pathways is correct?

Accepted Answer

Catabolic pathways release energy by breaking down molecules, while anabolic pathways consume energy to build larger molecules.

Question 17

A patient with a rare deficiency in pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) may experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Fatigue, irritability, numbness, muscle pain, and cramps

Question 18

Which mineral acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in glucose production and amino acid catabolism?

Accepted Answer

Manganese

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of blood plasma?

Accepted Answer

It maintains fluid balance, pH, and temperature, and transports nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

Question 20

Which vitamin is required for the synthesis of multiple neurotransmitters and hemoglobin, and its deficiency can cause muscle weakness, dermatitis, and confusion?

Accepted Answer

Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)

Metabolism and Blood Function: Nutrients, Vitamins, and Minerals in Human Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards