Q21. Dietary fiber, a type of carbohydrate, is essential for human health primarily because it:
Human Health, Food, Nutrition and Public Health Programmes: RAS Prelims MCQs
151 RAS Prelims MCQs on human health, food, nutrition and public health programmes test nutrients, vitamins, deficiency diseases and government programmes. Carbohydrates, vitamin names, iron and anaemia, overnutrition, adulteration and epidemic dropsy, the role of an ASHA worker and the aims of Poshan Abhiyan are asked as facts and effects.
Practice questions based on the RPSC RAS Prelims syllabus. They follow the exam pattern but are not past-paper questions.
Showing 21–30 of 151 questions
Q22. Consider the following statements about Vitamin D:
I. It can be synthesized in the human skin upon exposure to sunlight.
II. Its deficiency in children causes Rickets.
III. It is a water-soluble vitamin.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
I. It can be synthesized in the human skin upon exposure to sunlight.
II. Its deficiency in children causes Rickets.
III. It is a water-soluble vitamin.
Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct?
Explanation
Vitamin D is unique because it can be synthesized by the skin through exposure to ultraviolet B radiation from sunlight. It is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for bone health; its deficiency leads to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Because it is fat-soluble, it is stored in the liver and fatty tissues, unlike water-soluble vitamins that are excreted.
Q23. Calcium deficiency in older adults can lead to a condition characterized by fragile and porous bones known as:
Explanation
Osteoporosis is a skeletal condition characterized by decreased bone mass and the deterioration of bone tissue, making them fragile and highly susceptible to fractures. While it can affect anyone, it is particularly common in older adults due to long-term calcium deficiency and hormonal changes. Ensuring adequate intake of calcium and Vitamin D throughout life is essential for maintaining strong bone density.
Q24. A balanced diet must contain carbohydrates, proteins, and fats ideally in a specific ratio. The general recommended energy contribution ratio from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats respectively is closest to:
Explanation
A balanced diet requires a specific distribution of energy from the three primary macronutrients. General nutritional guidelines suggest that carbohydrates should provide the majority of daily calories, followed by fats, with proteins contributing the remaining portion. This ratio ensures that the body receives sufficient fuel for energy, essential fatty acids for cellular health, and amino acids for tissue repair and growth.
Q25. The detection of starch adulteration in milk is commonly done by adding which of the following reagents?
Explanation
Starch is sometimes added to milk as an adulterant to increase its thickness and solids content. Its presence can be easily detected using an iodine solution.
Q26. Food preservation by the method of canning involves:
Explanation
Canning is a preservation method that involves placing food in jars or cans and heating them to a temperature that destroys microorganisms and inactivates enzymes. The subsequent sealing of the containers creates a vacuum that prevents new bacteria from entering. This process allows food to be stored safely at room temperature for extended periods while maintaining its nutritional value and flavor.
Q27. Read the following statements and select the correct option:
Assertion (A): FSSAI has banned the use of calcium carbide for ripening fruits.
Reason (R): Calcium carbide contains traces of arsenic and phosphorus which are hazardous to human health.
Assertion (A): FSSAI has banned the use of calcium carbide for ripening fruits.
Reason (R): Calcium carbide contains traces of arsenic and phosphorus which are hazardous to human health.
Explanation
The use of calcium carbide for the artificial ripening of fruits is prohibited because it reacts with moisture to produce acetylene gas, which mimics natural ripening but poses health risks. This chemical often contains impurities such as arsenic and phosphorus hydrides, which are highly toxic. Consumption of fruits ripened this way can lead to serious health issues, including neurological disorders.
Q28. The finger-like projections found in the inner lining of the small intestine that increase the surface area for absorption are called:
Explanation
Villi are specialized microscopic, finger-like projections that line the inner wall of the small intestine. Their primary function is to increase the surface area available for the absorption of digested nutrients into the bloodstream. Each villus is equipped with a network of capillaries and a lymphatic vessel, allowing for the efficient transport of glucose, amino acids, and fats throughout the body.
Q29. Adaptive immunity is characterized by:
Explanation
Adaptive immunity is a specialized defense mechanism characterized by its ability to recognize and target specific pathogens. After an initial exposure to a foreign invader, the system develops immunological memory through the production of memory B and T cells. This memory allows the body to mount a faster and more robust immune response if it encounters the same pathogen in the future.
Q30. The primary mechanism of a vaccine is to introduce into the body:
Explanation
Vaccines work by introducing a harmless version of a pathogen, or its antigens, into the body to stimulate the immune system. This exposure triggers the production of antibodies and the development of memory cells without causing the actual disease. If the individual is later exposed to the real pathogen, their immune system recognizes it immediately and can neutralize it effectively.Answer key for these questions
| Q | Correct answer |
|---|---|
| 21 | (a) Promoting bowel regularity and preventing constipation |
| 22 | (a) I and II only |
| 23 | (b) Osteoporosis |
| 24 | (b) 55-60% : 10-15% : 20-30% |
| 25 | (a) Iodine solution |
| 26 | (b) Heat-killing microbes and sealing in airtight cans |
| 27 | (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. |
| 28 | (a) Villi |
| 29 | (c) Specificity and immunological memory |
| 30 | (d) Stimulating immune systems with specific antigens |
Key facts from Human Health, Food, Nutrition and Public Health Programmes
- Carbohydrates are the main source of immediate energy; overnutrition leads to obesity.
- Vitamin C is ascorbic acid; tocopherol (vitamin E) is not part of the Vitamin B complex.
- Iron deficiency most directly leads to anaemia, and anaemia among pregnant women raises the maternal mortality rate.
- The Recommended Dietary Allowance is the daily intake level sufficient for most healthy people.
- Argemone oil in edible mustard oil causes epidemic dropsy.
- An ASHA worker links the community with the public health system under the National Health Mission; Poshan Abhiyan targets stunting, under-nutrition and anaemia.
Frequently asked questions
How many RAS Prelims practice MCQs are there on Human Health, Food, Nutrition and Public Health Programmes?
This page has 151 practice MCQs on Human Health, Food, Nutrition and Public Health Programmes (Health, Environment and Agriculture). Each has the correct answer, and most have an explanation.
Which condition does iron deficiency cause?
Anaemia, a low level of haemoglobin in the blood. It causes weakness and tiredness, and in pregnant women it raises the risk to both mother and child, so iron and folic acid tablets are given under the public health programmes.
What causes epidemic dropsy?
Argemone oil mixed in edible mustard oil as an adulterant. The toxin it contains affects the body and causes swelling, so adulteration of mustard oil has led to outbreaks in India.
What is the role of an ASHA worker?
To link the community with the public health system under the National Health Mission. An ASHA, the Accredited Social Health Activist, is a village-level worker who guides women to institutional delivery and immunisation.