what is the main function of proteins in the body

HESI LPN

Nutrition Final Exam

1. What is the main function of proteins in the body?

A. They provide structural components for the body.
B. They assist in the absorption of vitamins.
C. They help with the transport of nutrients in the blood.
D. They help maintain fluid balance in the body.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main function of proteins in the body is to provide structural components like muscles, skin, and bones. Proteins are essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. While proteins play a role in various physiological functions, their primary function is not to assist in the absorption of vitamins (Choice B), help with the transport of nutrients in the blood (Choice C), or maintain fluid balance (Choice D).

2. Why is peer review important in scientific research?

A. To expedite publication of results.
B. To facilitate the replication of studies.
C. To verify the accuracy and validity of research findings.
D. To enhance the credibility of the research.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Peer review is crucial in scientific research to verify the accuracy and validity of research findings. By subjecting research papers to evaluation by experts in the field, peer review ensures that the study's methods, results, and conclusions are robust and reliable. This process helps to maintain high standards of quality in scientific publications, providing credibility to the research. Choices A and D are incorrect because the primary purpose of peer review is not to expedite publication or solely enhance credibility; its core function is to validate the research's accuracy and validity. Choice B, while beneficial, is not the primary reason for peer review; replication is a byproduct of the rigorous evaluation of research methods and findings.

3. What dietary modification is important for a child with celiac disease?

A. Increase dairy intake
B. Avoid gluten-containing foods
C. Decrease protein intake
D. Increase fiber intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Avoid gluten-containing foods. For a child with celiac disease, it is crucial to eliminate gluten from their diet to manage the condition effectively. Gluten triggers an immune response in individuals with celiac disease, leading to symptoms and damage to the small intestine. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because increasing dairy intake, decreasing protein intake, or increasing fiber intake are not specific dietary modifications for managing celiac disease.

4. How should a healthcare professional respond to a parent concerned about their child's weight gain?

A. Provide guidance on healthy eating and physical activity
B. Suggest restrictive dieting
C. Recommend increased caloric intake
D. Avoid discussing the issue

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a parent expresses concern about their child's weight gain, the most appropriate response is to provide guidance on healthy eating and physical activity. This approach promotes healthy weight management and overall well-being. Suggesting restrictive dieting (Choice B) can be harmful, especially for children, as it may lead to unhealthy relationships with food and potential nutritional deficiencies. Recommending increased caloric intake (Choice C) without proper assessment and guidance can exacerbate the issue. Avoiding discussing the issue (Choice D) neglects a critical opportunity to address the parent's concerns and support the child's health.

5. What term describes foods that contain non-nutrient substances whose known action in the body is to promote well-being to a greater extent than that contributed by the food's nutrients?

A. fortified foods
B. enriched foods
C. functional foods
D. health-enhancing foods

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Functional foods are specifically designed to promote health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Fortified foods (choice A) are those with added nutrients that are not originally present, enriched foods (choice B) have nutrients added back that were lost during processing, and health-enhancing foods (choice D) is a vague and less specific term compared to functional foods.