Nutritions MCQ for RRB & SSC and other Competitive exams
41
Which of the following is not a function of proteins?
✓ Answer:
B
Primary source of energy
Proteins are NOT the primary energy source - carbohydrates are. Proteins are used for energy only when carbohydrates and fats are insufficient. The primary functions of proteins are: building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, forming antibodies, carrying oxygen (haemoglobin), structural roles (collagen, keratin), and maintaining fluid balance.
42
Which of the following is the richest source of Vitamin C?
✓ Answer:
C
Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla (Indian Gooseberry / Phyllanthus emblica) is one of the richest known natural sources of Vitamin C, containing approximately 600-700 mg per 100 g - about 20 times more than oranges. Other good sources include citrus fruits, guava, capsicum, and kiwi. Vitamin C is water-soluble and heat-sensitive.
43
Which nutrient is the most abundant in the human body?
✓ Answer:
C
Water
Water constitutes approximately 60-70% of the human body weight, making it the most abundant nutrient. It is essential for all metabolic reactions, temperature regulation, nutrient transport, waste elimination, and joint lubrication. The daily recommended water intake is about 2-3 litres. Dehydration can impair cognitive function, physical performance, and organ function.
44
Sodium in the diet is essential for which of the following functions?
✓ Answer:
B
Fluid balance and nerve impulse transmission
Sodium (Na+) is the primary extracellular cation. It is essential for maintaining fluid balance (osmotic regulation), nerve impulse transmission (action potential), muscle contraction, and acid-base balance. Excess sodium raises blood pressure (hypertension). The WHO recommends less than 5 g of salt per day. Primary source: table salt (NaCl).
45
Which disease is caused by protein deficiency in children?
✓ Answer:
B
Kwashiorkor
Kwashiorkor is caused by severe protein deficiency (with adequate calorie intake) in children, typically after weaning. Symptoms include oedema (swollen belly), skin lesions, hair discolouration, and liver enlargement. Marasmus is caused by overall calorie and protein deficiency (severe wasting). Both are forms of Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM).
46
Which of the following is the deficiency disease of Vitamin B9?
✓ Answer:
C
Neural Tube Defects and Megaloblastic Anaemia
Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid / Folate) deficiency during pregnancy causes Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) like Spina Bifida in the fetus. In adults, it causes Megaloblastic Anaemia (large, immature red blood cells). Folic acid supplementation is strongly recommended before and during early pregnancy. Rich sources: green leafy vegetables, legumes, fortified cereals.
47
Which of the following is a good plant-based source of protein?
✓ Answer:
B
Lentils (Dal)
Lentils (Dal) are one of the best plant-based protein sources, containing approximately 9g of protein per 100g (cooked). Other good plant-based proteins include chickpeas, soybeans, tofu, quinoa, nuts, and seeds. However, most plant proteins are incomplete (lacking one or more essential amino acids), except soy and quinoa, which are complete proteins.
48
Which nutrient provides the most energy per gram?
✓ Answer:
C
Fats
Energy values per gram: Fats = 9 kcal/g (highest), Carbohydrates = 4 kcal/g, Proteins = 4 kcal/g, Vitamins and minerals = 0 kcal/g (no energy). Fats provide more than double the energy of carbohydrates and proteins, making them the most energy-dense macronutrient.
49
Which of the following minerals is essential for thyroid hormone production?
✓ Answer:
C
Iodine
Iodine is an essential component of thyroid hormones - Thyroxine (T4) contains 4 iodine atoms and Triiodothyronine (T3) contains 3. These hormones regulate metabolism, growth, and development. Iodine deficiency causes Goitre (enlarged thyroid gland). Iodized salt is used to prevent iodine deficiency disorders globally.
50
Hypervitaminosis is a condition caused by?
✓ Answer:
B
Excess intake of fat-soluble vitamins
Hypervitaminosis is toxicity caused by excess accumulation of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) in the body's fatty tissues and liver. Since they are not easily excreted (unlike water-soluble vitamins), they accumulate and become toxic. Hypervitaminosis A causes liver damage and headaches. Hypervitaminosis D causes calcium deposits in soft tissues.