AAFCS - American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Nutrition and Wellness Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: According to the USDA's MyPlate guidelines, which of the following should make up the largest portion of a person's plate at a meal?
- Grains
- Protein
- Vegetables (Correct answer)
- Fruits
Correct answer: Vegetables
The USDA's MyPlate visual guide shows a plate divided into four sections: fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein, with a side of dairy. Of the four main sections on the plate, vegetables make up the largest portion, at approximately 40%.
Question 2: A client is creating a wellness goal. Which of the following goals is written in the SMART format?
- "I will eat healthier starting next month."
- "I will walk for 30 minutes on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for the next four weeks to improve my cardiovascular health." (Correct answer)
- "I want to lose a lot of weight before summer."
- "I will try to exercise more often."
Correct answer: "I will walk for 30 minutes on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for the next four weeks to improve my cardiovascular health."
The correct answer is written in the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) format. It specifies the activity (walking), duration and frequency (30 minutes, 3 times/week), timeframe (for four weeks), and relevance (to improve cardiovascular health). The other options are vague and lack one or more of the SMART criteria.
Question 3: Which macronutrient's primary function is to build and repair tissues, as well as provide structure to cell membranes, organs, and muscles?
- Carbohydrates
- Fats
- Vitamins
- Protein (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Protein
Protein's primary role in the body is for growth, repair, and maintenance of all body tissues. It provides the building blocks (amino acids) for muscles, organs, skin, and enzymes. While carbohydrates are the main energy source and fats are vital for energy storage and vitamin absorption, protein is essential for structural purposes.
Question 4: A family is planning meals for an older adult with a decreased appetite. To ensure adequate nutrition, their focus should be on which type of foods?
- Calorie-dense foods
- Nutrient-dense foods (Correct answer)
- High-carbohydrate foods
- Low-fat foods
Correct answer: Nutrient-dense foods
Older adults often have reduced energy needs but still require high levels of vitamins and minerals. Nutrient-dense foods provide substantial amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds with relatively few calories. This makes them ideal for individuals with smaller appetites, ensuring they get the necessary nutrients without excessive calories.
Question 5: Which of the following sets of symptoms is most indicative of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction?
- A mild stomach ache and a single hive
- Itchy eyes and a runny nose
- Difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the lips or tongue (Correct answer)
- A headache and slight fatigue
Correct answer: Difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the lips or tongue
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that affects multiple body systems. The hallmark symptoms include respiratory distress (difficulty breathing, wheezing), skin reactions (hives, swelling), and a drop in blood pressure. The combination of difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling is a classic presentation of anaphylaxis and requires immediate medical attention.
Question 6: What is the primary role of carbohydrates in the body?
- To absorb and transport fat-soluble vitamins
- To serve as the body's main source of energy (Correct answer)
- To regulate hormone production
- To repair and build muscle tissue
Correct answer: To serve as the body's main source of energy
Carbohydrates are the body's preferred and primary source of fuel. They are broken down into glucose, which provides energy for muscles and the central nervous system. While fats, proteins, and micronutrients have other vital roles, carbohydrates are the main macronutrient used for immediate energy.
AAFCS - American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Nutrition and Wellness Questions and Answers
According to the USDA's MyPlate guidelines, which of the following should make up the largest portion of a person's plate at a meal?