Minerals and Nutrients

Bananas are widely known for being an excellent dietary source of potassium (K). This essential mineral helps regulate fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions throughout the body.

The cuticle of an eggshell is composed of proteins. In an acidic environment, the amino groups in these proteins acquire extra hydrogen ions (become protonated), giving them a positive charge that strongly attracts and binds the negatively charged dye molecules.

Sodium, primarily consumed as salt, causes the body to retain water, which increases blood pressure and puts extra strain on the liver and kidneys. Reducing sodium intake is a key dietary recommendation for managing hypertension and liver disease.

Nutrients are classified based on the quantities the body needs. Since minerals and vitamins are required in very small amounts (milligrams or micrograms), they are classified as micronutrients, whereas proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are macronutrients.

Vitamin C, not riboflavin, is the nutrient that significantly enhances the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is primarily responsible for releasing energy from food and maintaining healthy skin and eyes.

Transferrin is the main glycoprotein in the blood that binds to iron and transports it throughout the body. Ferritin, on the other hand, is primarily a storage protein that keeps iron safely stored inside cells. Therefore, transferrin is the correct protein for bloodstream transport.

Fluoride is commonly added to public drinking water supplies to help prevent dental cavities (tooth decay) by strengthening tooth enamel. While calcium is also important for teeth, it is not typically added to municipal drinking water for this purpose. Note that "fluoride" is misspelled as "Flouride" in the options.

Iodine is a trace mineral that is commonly added to table salt (creating iodized salt) to prevent iodine deficiency disorders, such as goiter. Other trace minerals like selenium, copper, and zinc are not standard additives in everyday table salt.

Iron is an essential trace mineral that serves as a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Without sufficient iron, the body cannot produce enough functional red blood cells, leading to anemia.

Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and energy production. It is abundant in foods like leafy greens, beans, nuts, bananas, and yogurt.

Calcium is the primary mineral stored in bones, providing them with structure and strength. It also plays a critical role in facilitating muscle contractions and nerve signaling.

Proteins are essential macronutrients required for the growth, maintenance, and repair of all body tissues, including muscles, skin, and organs. Minerals like iron and magnesium, and vitamins like pantothenic acid, act as cofactors or regulators but do not serve as structural building blocks.

Fluoride (derived from fluorine) strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent dental cavities (tooth decay), which is why it is commonly added to public water supplies and toothpaste.

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in immune system function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. While vitamins C and E also support the immune system, they are vitamins, not minerals.

Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. A deficiency in iron leads to iron-deficiency anemia, and rich dietary sources include red meat and dark leafy greens.