HESI Nutrition Exam – Practice Questions with Answers (2025 Edition)

HESI Nutrition Exam – Practice Questions with
Answers (2025 Edition)
Question 1
Which nutrient is the body’s primary source of energy?
A. Protein
B. Carbohydrates
C. Fats
D. Vitamins

Correct Answer: B. Carbohydrates
Rationale: Carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source, providing 4 kcal/g and being
quickly broken down into glucose for cellular energy. Proteins and fats are secondary sources,
and vitamins do not provide energy.

Question 2
What is the recommended daily intake of fiber for adults?
A. 10–15 g
B. 25–30 g
C. 40–50 g
D. 5–10 g

Correct Answer: B. 25–30 g
Rationale: The Dietary Guidelines recommend 25 g for women and 30 g for men to promote
digestive health and reduce chronic disease risk. Other options are either too high or too low.

Question 3
Which vitamin is essential for blood clotting?
A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin C
C. Vitamin D
D. Vitamin K

Correct Answer: D. Vitamin K
Rationale: Vitamin K is critical for synthesizing clotting factors in the liver. Other vitamins have
different roles (e.g., Vitamin A for vision, C for immunity, D for bone health).

Question 4

,A patient with celiac disease should avoid which food?
A. Rice
B. Wheat
C. Corn
D. Quinoa

Correct Answer: B. Wheat
Rationale: Celiac disease requires a gluten-free diet, and wheat contains gluten. Rice, corn, and
quinoa are naturally gluten-free and safe.

Question 5
What is the primary function of protein in the body?
A. Energy production
B. Tissue repair and growth
C. Insulation
D. Fluid balance

Correct Answer: B. Tissue repair and growth
Rationale: Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues, including muscles and
organs. Other functions are secondary or handled by other nutrients.

Question 6
Which mineral is most associated with bone health?
A. Iron
B. Calcium
C. Potassium
D. Sodium

Correct Answer: B. Calcium
Rationale: Calcium is a key component of bone structure and strength. Iron aids in oxygen
transport, potassium regulates fluid balance, and sodium affects blood pressure.

Question 7
A patient with hypertension should limit intake of which nutrient?
A. Fiber
B. Sodium
C. Calcium
D. Vitamin C

Correct Answer: B. Sodium
Rationale: Excessive sodium increases blood pressure by retaining water. Fiber, calcium, and
vitamin C are not directly linked to hypertension control.

,Question 8
Which food is a complete protein source?
A. Lentils
B. Eggs
C. Rice
D. Almonds

Correct Answer: B. Eggs
Rationale: Complete proteins contain all essential amino acids. Eggs are complete, while lentils,
rice, and almonds are incomplete and require combining with other foods.

Question 9
What is the recommended daily water intake for an average adult?
A. 1–1.5 L
B. 2–3 L
C. 4–5 L
D. 0.5–1 L

Correct Answer: B. 2–3 L
Rationale: Adults need 2–3 liters of water daily from all sources (beverages and food) to
maintain hydration, depending on activity and climate. Other options are too high or low.

Question 10
Which vitamin deficiency causes scurvy?
A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin B12
C. Vitamin C
D. Vitamin D

Correct Answer: C. Vitamin C
Rationale: Scurvy results from vitamin C deficiency, leading to bleeding gums and poor wound
healing. Other vitamins cause different deficiencies (e.g., A for night blindness, D for rickets).

Question 11
A patient with type 2 diabetes should prioritize which type of carbohydrate?
A. Simple sugars
B. Complex carbohydrates
C. Refined grains
D. High-fructose syrup

, Correct Answer: B. Complex carbohydrates
Rationale: Complex carbohydrates (e.g., whole grains) provide steady blood sugar release due to
their fiber content, unlike simple sugars or refined grains, which spike glucose levels.

Question 12
Which nutrient is most critical for wound healing?
A. Carbohydrates
B. Protein
C. Fats
D. Vitamin E

Correct Answer: B. Protein
Rationale: Protein provides amino acids for tissue repair and collagen formation, essential for
wound healing. Other nutrients play supportive roles but are less critical.

Question 13
What is the primary source of omega-3 fatty acids?
A. Red meat
B. Olive oil
C. Fatty fish
D. Butter

Correct Answer: C. Fatty fish
Rationale: Fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel) are rich in omega-3s, which support heart and
brain health. Other options provide different types of fats.

Question 14
A patient with iron-deficiency anemia should increase intake of which food?
A. Spinach
B. Milk
C. Bananas
D. White bread

Correct Answer: A. Spinach
Rationale: Spinach is a good source of non-heme iron, especially when paired with vitamin C-
rich foods. Milk, bananas, and white bread are low in iron.

Question 15
Which diet is prescribed for a patient with renal failure?
A. High-protein