HNF 150 Exam 3 Learning Objectives
Describe the major roles of water. ✔️✔️- Carries nutrients
- Cleanses tissue and blood
- Solvent (dissolves other substances to create a solution)
- Chemical reactions
- Lubricant around joints
- Shock absorber
- Body temperature
What is the role of the microbiome in digestion?
The gut microbiome consists of beneficial bacteria that assist in breaking down complex carbohydrates,
synthesizing vitamins, and protecting against harmful pathogens, thus supporting overall digestive
health. ✔️✔️
How does the body regulate its temperature?
The body regulates its temperature through mechanisms such as sweating, shivering, and adjusting
blood flow to the skin, helping to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.
✔️✔️
What are the main functions of fat in the body?
Fat provides a concentrated source of energy, supports cell membrane structure, protects organs,
insulates the body, and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). ✔️✔️
Why is magnesium important for bone health?
Magnesium contributes to bone density by helping with the absorption of calcium and playing a key role
in the formation of bone tissue, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. ✔️✔️
How does the body break down proteins for energy?
,Proteins are broken down into amino acids during digestion. When the body needs energy, these amino
acids can be converted into glucose through gluconeogenesis or used directly by cells for various
functions. ✔️✔️
What are the consequences of a vitamin D deficiency?
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to weakened bones, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures, as
well as an increased susceptibility to infections and certain chronic diseases. ✔️✔️
How do enzymes aid in digestion?
Enzymes speed up the breakdown of food into smaller molecules, allowing nutrients to be absorbed
more easily into the bloodstream through the digestive tract. ✔️✔️
What is the role of cortisol in the body’s stress response?
Cortisol is a hormone released by the adrenal glands during stress. It helps increase blood sugar levels,
enhances brain function, and mobilizes energy stores to help the body cope with stress. ✔️✔️
How does the body use glucose for energy?
Glucose is broken down into smaller molecules through processes like glycolysis and the citric acid cycle,
producing ATP, the primary energy currency of the body. ✔️✔️
What is the significance of fiber in managing cholesterol levels?
Soluble fiber binds to cholesterol in the digestive tract, preventing its absorption and helping to lower
overall blood cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. ✔️✔️
What are the effects of a high-protein diet on kidney function?
A high-protein diet increases the workload on the kidneys by increasing the need for waste products
(e.g., urea) to be filtered out, which can be problematic for individuals with pre-existing kidney
conditions. ✔️✔️
How does exercise influence heart health?
, Regular physical activity strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood circulation, lowers blood
pressure, and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
✔️✔️
What is the role of bile salts in digestion?
Bile salts emulsify fats in the small intestine, breaking them down into smaller droplets to increase the
surface area for digestive enzymes, aiding in fat digestion and absorption. ✔️✔️
How does the liver contribute to carbohydrate metabolism?
The liver stores glucose as glycogen and releases it into the bloodstream when blood sugar levels are
low, helping to maintain stable blood glucose levels. ✔️✔️
What is the effect of excessive caffeine consumption on the body?
Excessive caffeine intake can lead to dehydration, increased heart rate, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and
may cause digestive issues such as acid reflux or stomach irritation. ✔️✔️
What role does potassium play in muscle function?
Potassium is essential for muscle function, as it helps regulate nerve impulses, muscle contraction, and
fluid balance, preventing muscle cramps and maintaining proper muscle function. ✔️✔️
What is the difference between simple and complex carbohydrates?
Simple carbohydrates consist of one or two sugar molecules and are quickly digested, while complex
carbohydrates are made up of multiple sugar units and take longer to break down, providing sustained
energy. ✔️✔️
Why is folate important during pregnancy?
Folate is essential for fetal growth and development, particularly for preventing neural tube defects and
supporting the formation of red blood cells during pregnancy. ✔️✔️
How do antioxidants protect the body from damage?
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA, thus
reducing the risk of chronic diseases and slowing the aging process. ✔️✔️
