Starting material for sex hormones:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cholesterol is a precursor for the synthesis of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Protein digestion begins in the stomach with the enzyme pepsin, which breaks down proteins into smaller polypeptides. The end products of protein digestion are amino acids.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Menopause. Menopause is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis due to hormonal changes that affect lipid profiles and vascular health. Conversely, B: Age older than 35 is not necessarily a risk factor for atherosclerosis on its own, though atherosclerosis risk does generally increase with age. C: Increased levels of arachidonic acid is not specifically linked to atherosclerosis; it's a fatty acid that can be both beneficial and harmful to health depending on its metabolic pathway. D: Elevated HDL cholesterol is actually beneficial rather than harmful because HDL cholesterol is known as 'good' cholesterol that helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Both statements are indeed true. As people age, their taste perception tends to decline. This change can be further exacerbated by the use of multiple medications, which can potentially dull taste sensitivity even more. Consequently, these individuals often need to consume foods with higher levels of sodium and sugar in order to perceive these tastes. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they deny either one or both of these established facts.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Adolescence is the most critical stage for building bone mass, which plays a significant role in preventing osteoporosis in later life. During adolescence, approximately 45% of adult bone mass is formed. Although bone mass can be built during infancy, early childhood, and young adulthood, it is not as significant as during adolescence, making choices A, B, and D incorrect. Therefore, focusing on adequate nutrition and physical activity during adolescence is vital for long-term bone health.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is both statements are false. The process of juicing often extracts the liquid components of fruits and vegetables, leaving behind the fiber-rich pulp. Therefore, juicing does not typically provide increased fiber. Additionally, juices can contain a higher concentration of sugar than whole fruits because the fiber, which helps to slow down the absorption of sugar, has been removed. This can lead to a spike in blood sugar levels after consumption. The other options are incorrect because they contain at least one false statement.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Consume small, frequent meals when hunger strikes.' This strategy is ideal for managing morning sickness because it prevents the stomach from becoming too empty, which can exacerbate nausea. Option A may not be helpful because dairy products can sometimes worsen nausea. Option B is not the most effective solution as the sitting position does not directly impact nausea levels. Option C, while generally beneficial for digestion and overall health, does not specifically address the issue of pregnancy-related nausea.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Immediately after a myocardial infarction, the primary concern is to allow the heart to rest and heal to prevent further damage. This is why choice B is the correct answer. While choices A, C, and D might be a part of the long-term management plan following a myocardial infarction, they are not the immediate priority. Reducing cholesterol and saturated fat intake, as well as adjusting eating habits can help prevent future heart issues, but do not directly contribute to the immediate recovery post-myocardial infarction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Atherosclerosis is dangerous to arterial function because it narrows the arterial lumen, increasing the risk of a clot completely blocking the blood flow. This can lead to severe cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes. Choice A is incorrect since atherosclerosis does not primarily diminish central circulation, but rather, it impedes local blood flow where the plaque is present. Choice B is also incorrect as atherosclerosis increases the pressure on artery walls due to the narrowed space for blood flow, not decrease it. Lastly, choice D is incorrect as atherosclerosis causes the arteries to lose their elasticity, not increase it.