What describes a common physical change of aging that can affect an older adult's nutrition?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Reduced salivary output is a common physical change in aging. This can affect an older adult's nutrition by impacting chewing, swallowing, and taste perception. The decrease in saliva production can make it harder to chew and swallow food effectively, affecting the overall eating experience. Additionally, saliva plays a role in taste perception, so a reduction in salivary output can lead to alterations in how food tastes, potentially impacting an individual's appetite and food choices. Increased gastrointestinal motility (choice B) is not typically associated with aging and would not directly affect nutrition. Abnormal cortisol production (choice C) is related to hormonal changes and is not a common physical change of aging that affects nutrition. An increase in the number of taste buds (choice D) is not a typical change associated with aging and would not have a significant impact on an older adult's nutrition.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is Vitamin B3, also known as Niacin. Niacin is essential for energy metabolism and can help improve cholesterol levels. Vitamin B1 is Thiamine, Vitamin B2 is Riboflavin, and Vitamin B12 is Cobalamin. These vitamins have different functions in the body and are not synonymous with Niacin.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Folate is crucial before conception to prevent neural tube defects. Neural tube development occurs early in pregnancy, often before a woman knows she is pregnant.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. DRIs are intended for the general population and do not specifically address disease states, which are managed with different clinical guidelines. Choice A is correct as DRIs have replaced the older recommended daily allowances. Choice B is correct as current DRIs aim to estimate the required nutrients for long-term health. Choice D is correct as DRIs also attempt to establish maximum safe levels of tolerance for nutrients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Abdominal pain is a common symptom of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), along with bloating and changes in bowel habits. Rectal bleeding (choice A) is more commonly associated with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or colorectal cancer. Rectal fissures (choice C) may cause rectal bleeding but are not typically considered a core symptom of IBS. Esophageal paralysis (choice D) is unrelated to the symptoms of IBS, which primarily affect the lower gastrointestinal tract.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Bile is essential for emulsifying fats in the small intestine, allowing them to be absorbed. Without bile, most fats would not be absorbed and would be excreted in the feces. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the primary role of bile is in the digestion and absorption of fats, rather than affecting lipid carriers, cholesterol production, or dietary fat consumption.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: providing rigidity for the bones. Almost all of the calcium in the body is utilized for maintaining the strength and structure of bones and teeth. Calcium plays a crucial role in skeletal health by providing rigidity and support to the skeletal system. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because while calcium is essential for various physiological functions like nerve transmission, cell energy production, and muscle contraction, the majority of calcium in the body is primarily allocated for bone health.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Yes, the hypothalamus plays a crucial role in regulating hunger and satiety. Fats are indeed known to be highly satiating nutrients, helping to create a feeling of fullness and satisfaction after a meal. Therefore, both statements are true. Choice B is incorrect because fats are indeed effective in promoting satiety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: '21%'. Approximately 21% of persons in the United States who have HIV infection are unaware that they are infected. This percentage represents a significant portion of individuals who are not aware of their HIV status, highlighting the importance of increased testing and awareness campaigns. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the estimated percentage provided in the context.