Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A deficiency in iron can lead to various symptoms, such as microcytic anemia, fatigue, faulty digestion, blue sclerae, pale conjunctivae, and tachycardia. Iron-deficiency anemia may be caused by inadequate dietary intake; accelerated demand or losses; and inadequate absorption secondary to diarrhea, decreased acid secretions, or antacid therapy. Iron deficiency is frequently the result of postnatal feeding practices and has a serious impact on growth and mental and psychomotor development in infants and children. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as zinc deficiency typically presents with symptoms like impaired wound healing, taste abnormalities, and hair loss; sodium deficiency can lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, dizziness, and confusion; and potassium deficiency may cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and abnormal heart rhythms.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Aspartame. Aspartame contains phenylalanine, which is contraindicated for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic disorder that impairs phenylalanine metabolism. Therefore, patients with PKU should avoid aspartame. Choices A, B, and C (Cyclamate, Acesulfame-K, Saccharin) are considered safe for individuals with PKU as they do not contain phenylalanine and can be recommended as alternatives to sugar for these patients.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Blood clotting, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and relaxation.' Calcium plays a crucial role in various physiological functions such as blood clotting, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and relaxation, membrane permeability, and activation of certain enzymes. Choice B is incorrect because while calcium is involved in calcium homeostasis, it is not the only role it plays in the body. Choice C is incorrect as calcium indeed has several known metabolic functions, and it is not solely for preventing caries. Choice D is also incorrect as the functions mentioned are primarily carried out by other nutrients and not specifically by calcium.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Water-soluble vitamins do not develop deficiencies rapidly because the body does not store them for long periods. They must be obtained through food constantly. Choice A is correct because water-soluble vitamins often act as coenzymes in various metabolic reactions. Choice C is correct as daily intake of water-soluble vitamins is necessary since they are not stored in the body. Choice D is incorrect as water-soluble vitamins are absorbed primarily in the small intestine, particularly in the duodenum and ileum, not the jejunum.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rickets is caused by vitamin D deficiency, not vitamin C deficiency. It usually occurs in children who are 1 to 3 years old. The name rickets came from the word 'wrikken,' meaning 'to bend or twist.' Common manifestations of rickets include tachetic deformities like bow legs or knock-knees, a narrow and distorted chest, and failure of the epiphyses of bones to develop normally, resulting in twisted and warped bones. While the diagnosis of rickets may be increasing in the United States, it is not caused by a lack of vitamin C.