Nutritions MCQ for RRB & SSC and other Competitive exams
71
Which of the following is the function of potassium in the body?
✓ Answer:
B
Regulating fluid balance and heart rhythm
Potassium (K+) is the primary intracellular cation. It is essential for: Fluid and electrolyte balance, Nerve impulse transmission, Muscle contraction - especially heart muscle (cardiac rhythm), and Blood pressure regulation (opposes sodium's effects). Low potassium (Hypokalaemia) can cause dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. Rich sources: bananas, potatoes, oranges, spinach, legumes.
72
Which of the following is the most important antioxidant vitamin?
✓ Answer:
C
Vitamin E
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) is considered the most important fat-soluble antioxidant. It protects cell membranes from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C is the major water-soluble antioxidant. Together, Vitamins C and E, along with beta-carotene (Vitamin A precursor) and selenium, form the body's primary antioxidant defense system.
73
Selenium in the body acts as?
✓ Answer:
C
An antioxidant (component of glutathione peroxidase)
Selenium is a trace mineral that functions as an antioxidant as a component of the enzyme Glutathione Peroxidase, which neutralizes harmful peroxides and protects cells from oxidative damage. It also supports thyroid function (converts T4 to active T3) and immune function. Deficiency causes Keshan disease (cardiomyopathy) and Kashin-Beck disease (joint disorder). Rich sources: Brazil nuts, seafood, meat.
74
Which of the following is the correct statement about dietary cholesterol?
✓ Answer:
D
Cholesterol is essential for hormone synthesis and cell membrane structure
Cholesterol is essential for: Cell membrane structure and fluidity, Steroid hormone synthesis (testosterone, oestrogen, cortisol), Vitamin D synthesis, and Bile acid production (for fat digestion). The body produces its own cholesterol (endogenous) in the liver - about 75% of total cholesterol. Only 25% comes from diet. Cholesterol is found only in animal products. High LDL cholesterol (not dietary cholesterol per se) is linked to heart disease.
75
Which of the following is the richest source of Vitamin D from food?
✓ Answer:
C
Cod liver oil
Cod liver oil is the richest dietary source of Vitamin D, containing approximately 250 mcg (10,000 IU) per 100g. Other good food sources include fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), egg yolks, and fortified foods (milk, cereals). Sunlight remains the primary source of Vitamin D for most people. Cod liver oil also provides Vitamin A and Omega-3 fatty acids.
76
Which of the following is associated with excess sodium intake?
✓ Answer:
C
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Excess sodium intake is strongly linked to hypertension (high blood pressure). High sodium causes water retention, increasing blood volume and pressure on vessel walls. Hypertension is a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. The WHO recommends less than 5g of salt (2g sodium) per day. Reducing salt intake is one of the most cost-effective public health interventions for cardiovascular disease prevention.
77
What is the term for nutrients required in large amounts?
✓ Answer:
B
Macronutrients
Macronutrients are nutrients required in large quantities (grams per day) that provide energy and structural components. They include: Carbohydrates (4 kcal/g), Proteins (4 kcal/g), Fats (9 kcal/g), and Water (large quantities, no energy). Micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are required in milligrams or micrograms per day and do not provide energy but are essential for metabolism.
78
Which of the following correctly defines the term 'Bioavailability' in nutrition?
✓ Answer:
B
The proportion of a nutrient that is absorbed and utilized by the body
Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a nutrient that is digested, absorbed, and actually used by the body. Not all nutrients in food are fully absorbed. For example: Heme iron (meat) has ~25% bioavailability vs non-heme iron (plants) at 5-15%. Vitamin C enhances iron bioavailability. Phytates and oxalates reduce mineral bioavailability. Bioavailability depends on food composition, cooking method, health status, and other nutrients consumed together.
79
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for nutrients is set by which organization in India?
✓ Answer:
C
ICMR
In India, the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) for nutrients are set by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) through its National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) based in Hyderabad. ICMR publishes 'Dietary Guidelines for Indians.' Globally, WHO sets international nutrition standards. FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) regulates food safety in India.
80
Which of the following correctly pairs a food source with its primary nutrient?
✓ Answer:
B
Carrot > Vitamin A (Beta-carotene)
Correct food-nutrient pairs: Milk > Calcium and Vitamin B12 (not Vitamin C), Carrot > Beta-carotene (Provitamin A), Lemon > Vitamin C (not Calcium), Liver > Vitamin A, Iron, Vitamin B12 (not only Vitamin D). Carrots are orange due to beta-carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A in the body. This is a very frequently asked food-nutrient pair in RRB and SSC exams.