which nutrient is most important for pregnant women to prevent neural tube defects

ATI RN

ATI Nutrition Practice A

1. Which nutrient is most important for pregnant women to prevent neural tube defects?

A. Iron
B. Folate
C. Calcium
D. Vitamin D

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Folate (or folic acid) is crucial for the prevention of neural tube defects during pregnancy.

2. Which consumption pattern of fermentable carbohydrate is considered most cariogenic?

A. A single exposure to a large quantity
B. A single exposure to a small quantity
C. Multiple exposures of small quantities
D. Multiple exposures followed by chewing sugarless gum

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Multiple exposures of small quantities are considered most cariogenic. The total amount of dietary fermentable carbohydrate seems to matter less than the form and frequency in which it is consumed. Having multiple exposures of even small quantities of fermentable carbohydrate throughout the day promotes a highly cariogenic environment in the mouth. Choices A and B, involving single exposures, are less cariogenic as they do not sustain the fermentation process over time. Choice D suggests a beneficial practice by chewing sugarless gum after exposures, which can reduce the risk, making it less cariogenic compared to multiple exposures of small quantities.

3. Which set of guidelines is intended to assess nutrient adequacy or plan intakes of population groups, not individuals?

A. Old Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA)
B. Estimated Average Requirement (EAR)
C. New Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA)
D. Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) is specifically designed to assess nutrient adequacy or plan intakes for population groups, not for individuals. The Old and New Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) are meant for individuals, not groups, as they provide guidelines for specific nutrient intake levels for healthy individuals. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) is used to set the highest level of nutrient intake that is likely to pose no risk of adverse health effects for most individuals in a group, which is different from assessing nutrient adequacy for groups.

4. Which food has the highest calcium content?

A. soy products
B. milk
C. cereal grains
D. dark green vegetables

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, milk. Milk is known for being one of the best dietary sources of calcium, essential for bone health and various bodily functions. Soy products, cereal grains, and dark green vegetables are good sources of calcium as well, but milk generally has a higher calcium content compared to these options.

5. Can soluble fibers be fermented by gut bacteria?

A. TRUE
B. FALSE
C.
D.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Soluble fibers can indeed be fermented by gut bacteria in the large intestine, leading to the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids. This fermentation process is important for gut health and provides various health benefits. Therefore, the statement is true. Choice B is incorrect as it contradicts the known scientific fact that soluble fibers can be broken down by gut bacteria through fermentation.