Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the villi and microvilli in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

They increase the surface area for nutrient absorption.

Question 2

A patient is diagnosed with celiac disease. Which of the following best explains the physiological response when this patient consumes gluten?

Accepted Answer

The immune system attacks the villi, reducing nutrient absorption.

Question 3

Which hormone is primarily responsible for stimulating the release of digestive enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the gallbladder?

Accepted Answer

Cholecystokinin (CCK)

Question 4

A person eats a meal high in carbohydrates. Which enzyme is most active in the initial breakdown of these carbohydrates in the mouth?

Accepted Answer

Amylase

Question 5

Which of the following best describes peristalsis?

Accepted Answer

The rhythmic contraction of muscles to propel food through the digestive tract.

Question 6

A patient with chronic heartburn is diagnosed with GERD. Which physiological malfunction most likely contributes to this condition?

Accepted Answer

Weakness of the lower esophageal sphincter

Question 7

Which of the following is the correct sequence of events for the chemical digestion of proteins?

Accepted Answer

Amylase in the mouth → Pepsin in the stomach → Proteases in the small intestine

Question 8

Which organ is primarily responsible for producing bile, and what is the main function of bile in digestion?

Accepted Answer

Liver; emulsifies fats

Question 9

A person with Crohn’s disease may experience malabsorption. Which of the following best explains why?

Accepted Answer

Chronic inflammation damages the intestinal lining, reducing nutrient absorption.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the role of bicarbonate in the digestive process?

Accepted Answer

It neutralizes acidic chyme entering the small intestine.

Question 11

Which of the following statements about the gut microbiome is correct?

Accepted Answer

It helps ferment undigested carbohydrates and produces beneficial compounds.

Question 12

A person is fasting and their blood glucose levels begin to drop. Which hormone is released to increase blood glucose, and from which organ?

Accepted Answer

Glucagon from the pancreas

Question 13

Which of the following best distinguishes mechanical digestion from chemical digestion?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical digestion physically breaks down food; chemical digestion uses enzymes to break chemical bonds.

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct example of a prebiotic and its function?

Accepted Answer

Inulin; serves as food for beneficial gut bacteria

Question 15

A patient with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is most likely to experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Alternating diarrhea and constipation without visible tissue damage

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the role of the circulatory system in nutrient absorption?

Accepted Answer

It transports absorbed nutrients from the intestine to the rest of the body.

Question 17

Which of the following is the correct formula for calculating Body Mass Index (BMI)?

Accepted Answer

$$ 	ext{BMI} = \frac{	ext{weight (kg)}}{	ext{height (m)}^2} $$

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the concept of nutritional genomics?

Accepted Answer

The study of how nutrients affect gene expression and how genetic variation affects nutrient needs.

Question 19

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the importance of the lymphatic system in digestion?

Accepted Answer

Transport of fat-soluble nutrients from the intestine to the bloodstream

Question 20

A person experiences vomiting and diarrhea after eating contaminated food. Which digestive disorder is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Gastroenteritis

The Basics of Digestion: Structure, Function, and Disorders

Study Guide - Practice Questions