DH 209 Nutrition Exam

Correct Answer: C. A hypo state known as scurvy

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

C is correct because scurvy is not associated with Vitamin A deficiency. Scurvy is actually caused by a deficiency in Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), not Vitamin A. The symptoms of scurvy include weakness, anemia, gum disease, and skin problems, which are distinct from the symptoms of Vitamin A deficiency.

Why the Other Options are Incorrect:

A. Involved in tooth development

This is incorrect because Vitamin A plays an essential role in tooth development. It contributes to the development of tooth enamel and is important for the maintenance of the health of the oral tissues.

B. Growth of soft tissue and bone

This is incorrect because Vitamin A is essential for the growth of soft tissue and bone. It helps in cell differentiation, which is crucial for the growth and repair of tissues, including bone and soft tissues.

D. Prevention of night blindness

This is incorrect because Vitamin A is crucial for preventing night blindness. A deficiency in Vitamin A can lead to a condition known as nyctalopia, or night blindness, where the ability to see in low light is impaired.

Correct Answer: True

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

The statement is true because an inadequate daily intake of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients can indeed exacerbate periodontal disease. Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining oral health, including the health of the gums and bones. Deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin C (important for collagen formation and immune function), vitamin D (critical for calcium absorption and bone health), and calcium (important for bone structure) can impair the body’s ability to maintain healthy gum tissues and bone structures, potentially worsening periodontal disease.

Why the Other Option is Incorrect:

False

This is incorrect because insufficient nutrition can exacerbate periodontal disease. Without adequate vitamins and minerals, the body cannot effectively fight infection, heal tissues, or maintain bone strength, all of which are essential for oral health.

Correct Answer:

E. Consume a variety of healthful foods within adequate proportions over a lifetime

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

Maintaining long-term health, avoiding nutrient deficiencies, and ensuring adequate nutrient intake is best achieved by eating a balanced, varied diet composed of nutrient-dense foods in appropriate portions. This approach ensures that all essential nutrients—macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), and fiber—are consumed in sufficient quantities. Diversity in food choices helps reduce the risk of nutritional gaps and chronic diseases while promoting overall wellness. Long-term dietary patterns, not temporary fixes or extremes, are key to sustainable health.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Eat a high protein, low carbohydrate diet

While high-protein diets may help with short-term weight loss or satiety, they are not recommended for long-term health for most individuals. Severely restricting carbohydrates can lead to deficiencies in fiber, B vitamins, and phytonutrients commonly found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Balanced diets that include healthy carbohydrates are more sustainable and protective against chronic disease.

B. Use intermittent fasting to restart the body's metabolism

The idea that intermittent fasting “restarts” metabolism is a myth. While some people may experience benefits from fasting patterns, such as improved insulin sensitivity or calorie control, fasting alone does not guarantee adequate nutrient intake. It can also pose risks for nutrient deficiencies if meals consumed during eating windows are not well-balanced.

C. Take supplements, vitamins, and herbs to meet all minimum requirements

Relying solely on supplements and herbs is not a reliable or comprehensive strategy for nutrition. While supplements can help in cases of specific deficiencies or medical conditions, they do not provide the full spectrum of nutrients, fiber, and bioactive compounds found in whole foods. Additionally, excessive supplement use can be harmful and unregulated herbal products may pose safety risks.

D. Make sure fat intake falls well below 20%

Dietary fat is essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), supporting cell membranes, and producing hormones. Cutting fat intake below 20% can lead to deficiencies and hormonal imbalances. Healthy fats, such as those from nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish, are crucial components of a balanced diet.

Correct Answer:

B. Both statements are true.

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

Both statements are correct.

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands. They travel through the bloodstream to target cells and tissues, where they can stimulate or inhibit various cellular functions. This can include influencing metabolism, growth, and secretions.

The second statement is also correct: hormones control metabolic functions, which affect processes such as growth, development, and secretions. For example, hormones like insulin regulate glucose metabolism, and growth hormone influences growth and cell development.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. The first statement is false; the second is true:

This is incorrect because both statements are actually true, as explained above. Hormones do stimulate or retard cellular functions, and they do control various metabolic functions like growth and secretions.

C. Both statements are false:

This is incorrect because both statements are true. Hormones do act as messengers and control various functions related to metabolism, growth, and secretions.

D. The first statement is true; the second is false:

This is incorrect because while the first statement is true, the second statement is also true. Hormones indeed control various metabolic functions, including growth and secretions.

Correct Answer: D. First is false, second true

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

D is correct because the first statement about women practicing pica typically being from higher socioeconomic groups with more than a high school education is false. In fact, pica is more commonly observed in certain vulnerable populations, such as those from lower socioeconomic groups, or individuals with lower levels of education. Pica can also be seen more frequently in pregnant women and those with certain mental health conditions or nutritional deficiencies.

The second statement, however, is true. Pica is indeed an eating disorder that is characterized by the persistent ingestion of non-food substances, such as dirt, clay, chalk, or hair. It can have serious health consequences, including malnutrition or poisoning.

Why the Other Options are Incorrect:

A. Both are true

This is incorrect because the first statement about socioeconomic status and education level is false, making this option not correct.

B. Both are false

This is incorrect because the second statement about pica being an eating disorder that involves the ingestion of non-food substances is true.

C. First is true, second false

This is incorrect because the first statement about pica being more common in higher socioeconomic groups is false, and the second statement about the definition of pica is true.

Correct Answer:

A. First true, second false

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

Maxillary incisors are indeed the first teeth to be affected by early childhood caries (ECC). ECC typically begins with the upper front teeth (incisors) due to their exposure to sugars and bacteria from frequent bottle-feeding or nursing. However, the second statement is false. Early childhood caries refers to the presence of decayed, missing, or filled teeth in children aged 6 years or younger, not older than 6. The condition occurs when dental decay appears in children younger than 6 years, often resulting from poor oral hygiene and prolonged exposure to sugary liquids.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

B. First false, second true

This option is incorrect because the first statement about maxillary incisors being the first affected by ECC is true, while the second statement about the age group affected is false.

C. Both are false

This is incorrect because the first statement is true, and the second statement is false.

D. Both are true

This option is incorrect because while the first statement is true, the second one is false as ECC affects children under 6 years of age, not older than 6.

Summary:

Maxillary incisors are commonly the first to be affected by early childhood caries, which is a condition occurring in children under 6 years of age. The second statement regarding the age group is incorrect.

Correct Answer:

D. Cooking decreases the digestive process of some polysaccharides.

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

Cooking does not decrease the digestive process of polysaccharides. In fact, cooking often increases the digestibility of some polysaccharides. For example, cooking starches (a type of polysaccharide) can break down their structure, making them easier for digestive enzymes to act upon. So, this statement is incorrect because cooking usually aids in digestion, not hinders it.

Why the Other Options Are Correct:

A. They are complex carbohydrates.

This statement is true. Polysaccharides are indeed complex carbohydrates because they are made up of many (usually hundreds or thousands) monosaccharide units linked together.

B. Some polysaccharides have a role in energy storage.

This statement is true. Polysaccharides such as starch (in plants) and glycogen (in animals) are important for energy storage. These polysaccharides can be broken down into simpler sugars when the body needs energy.

C. They contain more than 10 monosaccharides.

This statement is true. Polysaccharides are defined as carbohydrates that consist of more than 10 monosaccharide units. Examples include starch, cellulose, and glycogen, which are all made up of many monosaccharide units.

Correct Answer:

B. String cheese

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

String cheese is the best choice for reducing cariogenicity because it is a dairy product, and dairy products such as cheese have cariostatic properties. Cheese helps neutralize acids in the mouth, reduces demineralization of tooth enamel, and promotes remineralization. The casein protein in cheese also forms a protective layer on teeth, while chewing it stimulates saliva production, which further helps to neutralize acids and wash away food particles.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Popcorn

While popcorn is a whole grain and a good source of fiber, it can be sticky and may get lodged in the grooves of the teeth. This can increase the risk of tooth decay if not properly cleaned from the teeth, making it less ideal for reducing cariogenicity.

C. Peanut butter and crackers

Peanut butter and crackers may be a relatively nutritious snack, but the crackers are typically carbohydrate-based and can break down into sugars that fuel oral bacteria. The sticky nature of peanut butter can also adhere to the teeth, potentially increasing the risk of caries if oral hygiene is not maintained.

D. Raisins

Raisins are dried fruits and are high in natural sugars. They can be sticky, and their sugar content can promote bacterial growth in the mouth, contributing to increased cariogenicity. While they provide vitamins and fiber, they are not the best choice for reducing cariogenicity.

Summary:

String cheese is the best snack option for reducing cariogenicity because it helps neutralize acids, supports tooth enamel, and promotes remineralization. Popcorn, peanut butter with crackers, and raisins are less ideal due to their potential to stick to the teeth or contribute sugars that can increase the risk of tooth decay.

Correct Answer:

A. Both are true

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

The ideal daily diet during orthodontic treatment is indeed a mechanically altered diet. This diet is designed to make eating easier for patients who may experience discomfort or difficulty chewing due to the braces or other orthodontic appliances. Foods that are soft or require less chewing, such as cheese, mashed potatoes, and boiled vegetables, are typically recommended to help prevent irritation to the gums and to avoid damaging the orthodontic equipment.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

B. Both are false

This option is incorrect because both statements about the mechanically altered diet being ideal and the types of foods included in this diet are true. The mechanically altered diet does provide the ease of chewing that is needed during orthodontic treatment, and foods such as cheese, mashed potatoes, and boiled vegetables are appropriate for this diet.

C. First false, second true

This option is incorrect because the first statement is true—the mechanically altered diet is ideal during orthodontic treatment. The second statement about the types of foods is also true. Therefore, both statements are accurate, and this option does not apply.

D. First true, second false

This option is incorrect because while the first statement about the mechanically altered diet is true, the second statement about the types of foods being suitable for such a diet is also true. Therefore, this option does not apply.

Summary:

The ideal diet during orthodontic treatment is the mechanically altered diet, which includes soft foods such as cheese, mashed potatoes, and boiled vegetables to make chewing easier. Both statements are accurate, so the correct answer is A: Both are true.