Protein catabolism is increased in which condition or age?
Young adult (20s-30s)
Old age (>65)
Illness
Middle age (40s-50s)
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Young adults (20s-30s) typically have balanced protein metabolism, with synthesis matching or exceeding catabolism (0.8 grams/kg body weight daily). Unless under stress or intense training, their protein breakdown is not significantly elevated, as their bodies prioritize muscle maintenance and growth, making this an incorrect choice.
Choice B reason: In old age (>65), protein catabolism may increase due to sarcopenia, where muscle breakdown outpaces synthesis, requiring 0.8-1.0 grams/kg protein daily. However, this is less pronounced than in acute illness, where catabolic stress dramatically accelerates protein loss, making age a less primary factor.
Choice C reason: Illness, especially acute conditions like infections or trauma, significantly increases protein catabolism due to elevated metabolic stress, inflammation, and cytokine release, which break down muscle for amino acids (up to 1.5 grams/kg daily). This catabolic state prioritizes energy and immune function, making it the primary condition for increased protein breakdown.
Choice D reason: Middle age (40s-50s) individuals typically maintain stable protein metabolism (0.8 grams/kg daily) unless affected by illness or inactivity. Catabolism is not inherently elevated compared to illness, where acute stress drives significant muscle protein breakdown, making this age group an incorrect choice.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Active teenagers, especially during growth spurts, require 0.85-1.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight due to increased muscle development, physical activity, and tissue repair needs. A 16-year-old’s high metabolic rate and growth demands elevate protein requirements significantly compared to adults.
Choice B reason: A 47-year-old female pilot, assuming average activity, requires about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for maintenance. This is lower than a teenager’s needs, as adults have stable muscle mass and lower growth demands, unless highly active.
Choice C reason: A 26-year-old sedentary lawyer has minimal protein needs, around 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, due to low physical activity and no growth demands. Sedentary lifestyles reduce muscle synthesis rates, making their protein requirements lower than active individuals.
Choice D reason: A 72-year-old grandfather requires about 0.8-1.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight to combat age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia). However, this is generally lower than a teenager’s needs, as growth and activity levels are typically reduced in older adults.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Peanut butter provides about 7 grams of protein per tablespoon, offering a near-complete amino acid profile, and is highly cost-effective. Whole grain toast adds complex carbohydrates (~3 grams protein), supporting energy needs. This combination is affordable, nutrient-dense, and supports muscle maintenance and satiety for budget-conscious diets.
Choice B reason: Canned tuna offers about 25 grams of complete protein per can, rich in essential amino acids. However, its cost is higher than peanut butter, and mercury content may limit frequent consumption. It is less budget-friendly, making it a secondary choice for daily protein needs.
Choice C reason: White rice with steamed vegetables provides minimal protein (rice: ~2 grams per cup, vegetables: <2 grams), primarily carbohydrates. This meal lacks sufficient amino acids for muscle repair or growth, making it inadequate as a budget-friendly protein source compared to peanut butter or tuna.
Choice D reason: Instant noodles with broth offer less than 5 grams of protein per serving, lacking essential amino acids. High in sodium and processed carbohydrates, they provide minimal nutritional value for protein needs, making them an unsuitable choice for a budget-friendly, protein-rich meal.
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