The Dietary Guidelines are published and revised by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in association with the:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The U.S. Department of Agriculture collaborates with the Department of Health and Human Services to publish and revise the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This collaboration ensures that the guidelines encompass both agricultural and health aspects. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not directly involved in the publication and revision of the Dietary Guidelines. The National Institutes of Health focuses on medical research, the National Academy of Sciences provides independent scientific advice, and the Food and Nutrition Board is a part of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Dietary guidelines are designed to assist individuals in making smart food choices by providing recommendations on what to eat to maintain good health. While portion sizes may be a part of these guidelines, they are not the primary focus. Designing a personal food plan involves individual preferences and needs, which may go beyond general guidelines. Avoiding excessive nutrient intakes is important, but dietary guidelines aim to provide balanced recommendations rather than just focusing on avoiding excess.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Increased awareness of personal food patterns. Keeping a food record is beneficial as it helps individuals become more mindful of their eating habits and food choices. This awareness can lead to identifying patterns, triggers, and areas for improvement in one's diet. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the primary benefit of keeping a food record is not about precise estimates of portion sizes, determining energy intake, or estimating supplement needs, but rather about developing a deeper understanding of personal food patterns.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'muscular and chemical.' In the process of digestion, muscular movements help in mixing and propelling food along the digestive tract, while chemical breakdowns involving enzymes and acids break down food into smaller molecules for absorption. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as thermal, segmental, and mechanical actions are not the primary actions involved in the digestion process.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: serosa. The serosa is the outermost layer of the intestinal wall, providing a protective covering. Choice B, mucosa, is the innermost layer responsible for absorption. Choice C, submucosa, lies beneath the mucosa and contains blood vessels and nerves. Choice D, muscularis mucosae, is a smooth muscle layer located within the mucosa, helping to create folds in the intestinal lining to increase surface area for absorption.