Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

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FAT IN A HEALTHY DIET:
After years of bad publicity, it may sound absurd, but many dietitians are now extolling the virtues of consuming fat. According to Laurie Tansman, a nutritionist at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York, fat "not only plays a vital role in the health of the membrane of every cell in our body, it also helps protect us from a number of key health threats." Fat is a critical part of your necessary food intake, with a general recommendation that 30 percent of your daily calories should come from fat. Without it, your body would not be able to absorb or transport vitamins A, D, E, and K. Additionally, body temperature, hair follicles, and skin cells all rely on the consumption of fats to function properly.
There is near-universal agreement that the healthiest fats are unsaturated fats. This category includes olive oil, sesame oil, walnut oil, avocado oil, and omega-3 fatty acids. When consumed in moderation, these fats can lower cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Saturated fats, while not as healthy as unsaturated fats, should still be consumed more sparingly. These fats are commonly found in animal products such as beef, pork, and chicken.
The least healthy of all fats are trans-fatty acids, or trans fats. Though trans fats can occur naturally in small amounts in animal products, they are more commonly found as artificially produced oils used for frying foods or softening prepackaged snacks. These fats increase the risk of heart disease, and the U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend consuming as few trans fats as possible.

What conclusion can a reader draw from this passage?

  • A. It is advisable to choose unsaturated fats over saturated fats.
  • B. Saturated fats are more calorically dense than unsaturated fats.
  • C. Trans fats are more calorically dense than saturated fats.
  • D. Unsaturated fats are mostly found in animal products.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct conclusion that can be drawn from the passage is that it is advisable to choose unsaturated fats over saturated fats. The passage emphasizes the health benefits of unsaturated fats, such as lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. It also mentions that saturated fats, although not as healthy as unsaturated fats, should still be consumed sparingly. Trans fats are highlighted as the least healthy fats, increasing the risk of heart disease. Choice B is incorrect because the passage does not explicitly compare the caloric density of saturated and unsaturated fats. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the caloric density of trans fats in comparison to saturated fats. Choice D is incorrect as the passage states that unsaturated fats are found in sources like olive oil, walnut oil, and avocado oil, not mostly in animal products.

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MICROBES IN HUMAN HEALTH:
There are 10 times more microbes than human cells in the human body. Scientists have long known that the human body hosts a staggering number of microorganisms. Recent discoveries, however, are shedding light on how pivotal these bacteria are in the development of the human immune system. The body supports a wide array of microorganisms specially adapted to survive in particular regions. Remarkably, there is such variation in these microorganisms that few people share the same strains in the same quantities.
The colonization of microbes begins at birth. A newborn infant, emerging from the germ-free environment of the womb, is immediately exposed to germs from its mother's birth canal. These bacteria swiftly begin to breed and colonize the infant's body, which becomes their new host. The most fascinating discovery is not just that the immune system tolerates these millions of harmless organisms, but that it may actually rely on their presence to function properly.
For example, laboratory mice unable to produce a specific inflammation-reducing molecule were injected with a particular strain of bacteria. After the bacteria colonized, the mice's immune systems developed the ability to synthesize the molecule. Essentially, the mice needed the bacteria for their immune systems to function correctly.
This concept is also being applied to humans through a relatively experimental procedure known as fecal bacteriotherapy. This treatment reintroduces healthy bacteria into a colon that has lost its ability to defend against pathogens. While scientists are only beginning to understand the critical role these microorganisms play in human health, early research has yielded remarkable discoveries.

What is the main idea of the passage about microbes?

  • A. Recent discoveries are revealing the critical role of microorganisms in maintaining a properly functioning immune system.
  • B. The human body is host to a staggering number of microorganisms.
  • C. Bacteriotherapy reintroduces healthy bacteria into a colon lacking the capability to defend against pathogenic agents.
  • D. Early research has shown remarkable discoveries in the possibilities of bacteriotherapy.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that recent discoveries are shedding light on the pivotal role of microorganisms in maintaining a properly functioning immune system. The passage discusses how the human body hosts a wide array of microorganisms, emphasizes the importance of these bacteria in the development of the immune system, and explores the potential applications of bacteriotherapy. Choice A is the correct answer because it accurately reflects the central theme discussed in the passage. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they focus on specific details or applications mentioned in the passage, rather than capturing the overarching theme of the critical role of microorganisms in immune system function.

MICROBES IN HUMAN HEALTH:
There are 10 times more microbes than human cells in the human body. Scientists have long known that the human body hosts a staggering number of microorganisms. Recent discoveries, however, are shedding light on how pivotal these bacteria are in the development of the human immune system. The body supports a wide array of microorganisms specially adapted to survive in particular regions. Remarkably, there is such variation in these microorganisms that few people share the same strains in the same quantities.
The colonization of microbes begins at birth. A newborn infant, emerging from the germ-free environment of the womb, is immediately exposed to germs from its mother's birth canal. These bacteria swiftly begin to breed and colonize the infant's body, which becomes their new host. The most fascinating discovery is not just that the immune system tolerates these millions of harmless organisms, but that it may actually rely on their presence to function properly.
For example, laboratory mice unable to produce a specific inflammation-reducing molecule were injected with a particular strain of bacteria. After the bacteria colonized, the mice's immune systems developed the ability to synthesize the molecule. Essentially, the mice needed the bacteria for their immune systems to function correctly.
This concept is also being applied to humans through a relatively experimental procedure known as fecal bacteriotherapy. This treatment reintroduces healthy bacteria into a colon that has lost its ability to defend against pathogens. While scientists are only beginning to understand the critical role these microorganisms play in human health, early research has yielded remarkable discoveries.

What is the author's primary purpose in writing this essay about microbes?

  • A. To persuade
  • B. To inform
  • C. To entertain
  • D. To analyze
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The author's primary purpose is to inform readers about the crucial role of microorganisms in the immune system. The essay focuses on presenting factual information and recent discoveries regarding the impact of microbes on human health. The author aims to educate the readers on the significance of microbes in human health rather than persuade them of a particular viewpoint (Choice A), entertain them with light-hearted content (Choice C), or analyze in-depth data and findings (Choice D). The essay's emphasis on informing readers about the role of microorganisms in the immune system makes 'To inform' the correct choice.

SLEEP:
Most people get a little grumpy when they do not get enough sleep, but for children, the issue may extend beyond mere irritability. Lack of sleep can affect their weight and overall behavior. A study conducted in New Zealand at the University of Auckland and published in the medical journal Sleep followed almost 600 children from infancy through seven years of age. Researchers observed the children�s sleep patterns and found that they generally slept less on weekends than during the week, and even less during the summer months.
According to the findings, children who slept the least were at a greater risk for being overweight and experiencing behavioral problems. Those who regularly slept less than nine hours a night were three times more likely to be obese and to show signs of attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) compared to those who slept more. These results were based on questionnaires completed by the children�s parents and teachers.
The connection between sleep and weight is still not fully understood, but experts suspect that chronic sleep deprivation may alter hormones involved in appetite control and metabolism. This is a connection that needs further exploration to be fully understood.
Experts recommend that preschoolers get 11 to 13 hours of sleep each night, while school-age children should get between 10 and 11 hours per night. However, many children average only 8 hours of sleep. The study concluded that adjusting sleep duration is a manageable risk factor that can help prevent future health problems for today�s young people.

What is the meaning of the word duration as used in the last paragraph?

  • A. Basis
  • B. Extent
  • C. Cure
  • D. Solidity
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The word "duration" in the context of sleep refers to the length of time that children should sleep. It suggests a focus on the amount of sleep necessary for healthy development, making option B the correct choice as it aligns with the emphasis on recommended sleep hours for children.

THE FOOD PYRAMID:
The food pyramid is a visual representation of how the different food groups can be combined to form a healthy diet. Although it was a vital part of dietary guidelines for years before being replaced by the �MyPlate� model, the pyramid was constantly analyzed and revised as additional study was done in nutritional fields. A few years ago, the pyramid underwent a change regarding the unique dietary needs of seniors.
Modifications in the pyramid for older adults included an emphasis on fiber and calcium, as well as on vitamins D and B12. By incorporating these changes, the pyramid indicated that the nutrients found in a person�s routine daily consumption typically are not enough for seniors. Seniors need supplementation. As people age, they tend to move less and thus need fewer calories to maintain their weight. Because seniors tend to eat a more limited amount, dietitians urge them to choose wisely. They are encouraged to eat nutrient-rich meals featuring such foods as fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and high-fiber whole grains.
The revised pyramid also focused on the importance for older people of ingesting adequate amounts of fluids daily. This helps to ensure proper digestion and prevent dehydration. Finally, the revised pyramid included information on incorporating exercise and other physical activities into the lives of older adults. Suggestions included swimming, walking, or simple yard work. With recent reports indicating that obesity levels for people older than 70 years of age are climbing, performing some type of regular exercise is more essential than ever.

What is the main idea of the passage?

  • A. Senior citizens need to increase their calcium and vitamin D intake.
  • B. The food pyramid was revised to reflect the needs of seniors.
  • C. Physical activity is a new addition to the food pyramid.
  • D. The revised food pyramid looks more like a food square.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The passage discusses the revision of the food pyramid specifically to address the unique dietary needs of seniors. It emphasizes how the changes were made based on ongoing research and analysis, indicating a broader focus on senior nutrition rather than just individual nutrients or exercise. Thus, option B captures the essence of the passage as it succinctly summarizes the main idea.

THE FOOD PYRAMID:
The food pyramid is a visual representation of how the different food groups can be combined to form a healthy diet. Although it was a vital part of dietary guidelines for years before being replaced by the �MyPlate� model, the pyramid was constantly analyzed and revised as additional study was done in nutritional fields. A few years ago, the pyramid underwent a change regarding the unique dietary needs of seniors.
Modifications in the pyramid for older adults included an emphasis on fiber and calcium, as well as on vitamins D and B12. By incorporating these changes, the pyramid indicated that the nutrients found in a person�s routine daily consumption typically are not enough for seniors. Seniors need supplementation. As people age, they tend to move less and thus need fewer calories to maintain their weight. Because seniors tend to eat a more limited amount, dietitians urge them to choose wisely. They are encouraged to eat nutrient-rich meals featuring such foods as fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and high-fiber whole grains.
The revised pyramid also focused on the importance for older people of ingesting adequate amounts of fluids daily. This helps to ensure proper digestion and prevent dehydration. Finally, the revised pyramid included information on incorporating exercise and other physical activities into the lives of older adults. Suggestions included swimming, walking, or simple yard work. With recent reports indicating that obesity levels for people older than 70 years of age are climbing, performing some type of regular exercise is more essential than ever.

What is the meaning of the word supplementation as used in the second paragraph?

  • A. Extra
  • B. Organization
  • C. Attachment
  • D. Revision
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The term "supplementation" refers to the addition of nutrients to the diet. In the context of the passage, it highlights the need for seniors to receive extra nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D beyond what they typically consume in their diets. This reflects the understanding that seniors may not get sufficient nutrition solely from their regular meals, supporting option A.

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