Identify the nutrient of proximate principle: I. Carbohydrate, II. Fat, III. Protein, IV. Vitamin, V. Mineral

KPSC Staff Nurse - 2021

Applied Nutrition & Dietetics

Easy

Appeared in: KPSC Staff Nurse - 2021

Explanation

Proximate principles are the major nutrients required in large quantities that supply energy to the body.
This group consists of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Carbohydrates and proteins provide 4 kcal/g, while fats are more energy-dense, providing 9 kcal/g.
Vitamins and minerals are essential for health but are classified as micronutrients because they are needed in smaller amounts and do not yield energy.

Option B: This option incorrectly includes Vitamin (IV) as a proximate principle. Vitamins are micronutrients and do not provide energy.
Option C: This option incorrectly includes Vitamin (IV) and Mineral (V). Both are essential micronutrients, not energy-yielding proximate principles.
Option D: This option is incorrect because a correct combination exists among the choices. Option A correctly identifies all the proximate principles listed.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of Nutrients (Proximate Principles vs. Micronutrients) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the difference between macronutrients and micronutrients is fundamental for nurses in nutritional assessment and patient education.
When planning diets for patients, nurses must ensure the caloric needs are met through an appropriate balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, while also including sufficient vitamins and minerals for metabolic functions.
What if? A patient is on a calorie-restricted diet for weight loss. The nurse must educate the patient to reduce intake of energy-dense macronutrients (especially fats and simple carbs) but maintain adequate protein for tissue repair and satiety, and ensure continued intake of micronutrient-rich foods like vegetables to prevent deficiencies.

How to Approach the Question

First, understand the term 'proximate principle'. This term refers to the major, energy-providing nutrients, also known as macronutrients.
Review the list of nutrients provided: I. Carbohydrate, II. Fat, III. Protein, IV. Vitamin, V. Mineral.
Categorize each nutrient. Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are known to provide calories (energy) and are needed in large amounts.
Recognize that vitamins and minerals are essential for health but are required in small amounts and do not provide energy. They are classified as micronutrients.
Based on this classification, identify the group that consists solely of proximate principles: Carbohydrates (I), Fats (II), and Proteins (III).
Compare this group with the given options to find the correct match.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Classification of Nutrients (Proximate Principles vs. Micronutrients)
Stem keywords: nutrient, proximate principle
Lead-in keywords: Identify

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E6 textbook of Applied Biochemistry and Nutrition & DieteticsHarbans Lal (pp 26-464 of 479) pp. 238-240, 241-243