the primary function of protein in the body is to

ATI LPN

PN Nutrition Assessment ATI

1. What is the primary function of protein in the body?

A. Provide energy.
B. Regulate metabolic processes.
C. Control muscle contractions.
D. Build tissue.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The primary function of protein in the body is to build and repair tissues. Proteins are crucial for growth, maintenance, and repair of body tissues, including muscles, organs, and skin. While proteins can be a source of energy, their primary role is not to supply energy. Regulating metabolic processes and controlling muscle contractions are functions typically attributed to other nutrients and compounds in the body, such as vitamins and minerals.

2. What is the term for the action of biting, chewing, and breaking up ingested food into smaller particles?

A. Peristalsis.
B. Segmentation.
C. Metabolism.
D. Mastication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Mastication.' Mastication is the mechanical process of chewing that breaks down food into smaller particles. Peristalsis (choice A) is the involuntary constriction and relaxation of muscles in the gastrointestinal tract that moves food along. Segmentation (choice B) is the mixing movement of the digestive system that helps to break down food and mix it with digestive juices. Metabolism (choice C) refers to the chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life.

3. Which condition may benefit from branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, and valine)?

A. cancer-related malnutrition
B. marasmus
C. cardiovascular disease
D. severe depression

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Branched chain amino acids, such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine, are essential in preventing muscle breakdown. Therefore, they may be particularly important for a patient with cancer-related malnutrition, where maintaining muscle mass is crucial. Marasmus is a severe form of malnutrition characterized by energy deficiency, not specifically related to cancer. Cardiovascular disease and severe depression do not have a direct correlation with the need for branched chain amino acids to prevent muscle breakdown.

4. Where is Vitamin B12 found?

A. Whole grains.
B. Nuts.
C. Meats.
D. Legumes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-derived foods like meats. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as whole grains, nuts, and legumes do not naturally contain significant amounts of Vitamin B12. Therefore, the correct answer is 'C: Meats.'

5. What does the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) represent?

A. a replacement for Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs).
B. a safe level of intake for people of all ages.
C. a potentially toxic level of intake of a nutrient.
D. the highest amount of a nutrient that can be safely consumed.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) represents the highest amount of a nutrient that can be safely consumed without causing adverse health effects. It is not a replacement for Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) (choice A) which are nutrient intake recommendations. While the UL is established to prevent toxicity, it is not a completely safe level for people of all ages (choice B). It is also not a potentially toxic level of intake of a nutrient (choice C), but rather the level that is unlikely to cause adverse health effects.