Test: Components of Food - UPSC MCQ

In the iodine test for starch, a blue-black color indicates the presence of starch in the tested food item. Iodine reacts with the starch molecules, forming a characteristic blue-black complex. This test is commonly used to detect the presence of starch in various food samples.

The correct answer is C: Dietary fibers.

- Dietary fibers, mainly found in fruits and vegetables, aid in preventing constipation by adding bulk to the stool.
- They are not digested by the body but help in regulating bowel movements and promoting overall digestive health.
- Fiber absorbs water, softening the stool and making it easier to pass, thus preventing constipation.
- Including a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet ensures an adequate intake of dietary fibers for maintaining digestive regularity.

Iron is crucial for the formation of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body. Without sufficient iron, the body cannot produce an adequate amount of healthy red blood cells, leading to a condition known as iron-deficiency anemia. Including iron-rich foods in the diet is essential for maintaining healthy levels of haemoglobin in the blood.

Vitamin D is renowned for its role in helping the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential minerals for the formation and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. It plays a crucial part in bone health and overall skeletal development.

Beriberi is a deficiency disease caused by the lack of vitamin B1 in the diet. It is characterized by symptoms such as weight loss and weak muscles. Foods rich in vitamin B1, such as beans, meat, eggs, and corn, are essential to prevent beriberi.

Scurvy is a deficiency disease caused by the lack of vitamin C in the diet. Symptoms of scurvy include bleeding gums and delayed wound healing. Consuming vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, tomatoes, lemon, guavas, and amla can help prevent scurvy.

Goitre is a deficiency disease caused by the lack of iodine in the diet. In adults, it results in swollen glands at the throat, while in children, it can lead to stunted mental and physical development. Using iodized salt in the diet can help prevent iodine deficiency and Goitre.

• Carbohydrates provide energy. (True)
• Carbohydrates are like the fuel for our bodies. They give us the energy we need to play, run, and do all the fun things we love! So, when we eat foods like bread, rice, or pasta, we are getting energy from carbohydrates to keep us active and strong.

When you don't have enough Vitamin C, your gums can bleed easily. Eating fruits like oranges can help because they have a lot of Vitamin C in them!

Yes, that's right! When our bodies don't get enough of the important stuff like vitamins and minerals, we can get sick with what we call 'deficiency diseases'. This is why it's super important to eat a balanced diet with lots of different foods to stay healthy and strong!