Question 1

Which macronutrient is the primary fuel source during high-intensity, short-duration anaerobic exercise, and why?

Accepted Answer

Carbohydrates, because they can be broken down to glucose and used in glycolysis to rapidly produce ATP without oxygen.

Question 2

During aerobic exercise, which metabolic pathway is primarily responsible for ATP production, and what is the main substrate used?

Accepted Answer

Aerobic respiration using carbohydrates as the main substrate.

Question 3

A 25-year-old athlete increases her training intensity. Which physiological adaptation is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Increase in cardiorespiratory fitness and mitochondrial density.

Question 4

A pregnant woman with a pre-pregnancy BMI of 22 is advised to gain 25–35 pounds during pregnancy. What is the rationale for this recommendation?

Accepted Answer

To ensure adequate fetal growth and maternal energy reserves.

Question 5

Why is folate supplementation especially critical during the first weeks of pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Folate supports neural tube development, reducing risk of neural tube defects.

Question 6

A mother consumes excessive caffeine during pregnancy. What is the most likely effect on fetal development?

Accepted Answer

Low birth weight and potential developmental delays.

Question 7

Which hormone is primarily responsible for stimulating milk production during lactation?

Accepted Answer

Prolactin

Question 8

An infant is ready for complementary foods. Which guideline should be followed to minimize risk of food allergies?

Accepted Answer

Introduce one new food at a time and observe for reactions.

Question 9

Why are adolescent girls at higher risk for iron deficiency compared to boys?

Accepted Answer

Girls experience increased iron loss due to menstruation.

Question 10

A 14-year-old boy consumes mostly processed snacks and sugary drinks. Which health risk is most directly associated with this dietary pattern?

Accepted Answer

Pediatric obesity and increased risk of type 2 diabetes

Question 11

Which statement best distinguishes binge eating disorder from occasional overeating?

Accepted Answer

Binge eating disorder involves recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food with loss of control and distress.

Question 12

A patient presents with extreme calorie restriction, intense fear of weight gain, and distorted body image. Which eating disorder is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Anorexia nervosa

Question 13

How does media exposure most commonly influence adolescent body image?

Accepted Answer

Media exposure can contribute to body dissatisfaction and unhealthy weight control practices.

Question 14

Which nutrient is most likely to require supplementation in older adults due to decreased skin synthesis and absorption?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin D

Question 15

An elderly patient is diagnosed with macular degeneration. Which dietary strategy may help slow progression of this condition?

Accepted Answer

Increase intake of antioxidants such as vitamin C and zinc.

Question 16

A 70-year-old woman has decreased bone mineral density. Which equation best represents the relationship between calcium intake and bone health?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Bone Mineral Density} \propto 	ext{Calcium Intake}$$

Question 17

Which government program is designed to improve food security among low-income families?

Accepted Answer

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Question 18

A school implements stricter nutrition policies, including limiting sugary beverages and increasing whole grains. What is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

Improvement in student dietary quality and potential reduction in obesity risk.

Question 19

A public health initiative aims to reduce pediatric obesity. Which multi-step approach is most effective?

Accepted Answer

Increase physical activity, improve school nutrition, and educate families about healthy eating.

Question 20

A 16-year-old adolescent smokes regularly. Which equation best represents the relationship between smoking and health risk?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Health Risk} \propto 	ext{Smoking Frequency}$$

Unit 4 Study Guide: Nutrition, Exercise, and Health Across the Lifespan

Study Guide - Practice Questions