Calories and Energy Quiz

What is a calorie?

• A unit of measurement for energy

• A type of food

• A measure of weight

• A form of exercise

Answer explanation

A calorie is a unit of measurement for energy, not a type of food, measure of weight, or form of exercise. It is used to quantify the amount of energy that is released when our bodies break down food and beverages we consume. This energy is essential for our bodies to function and perform daily activities.

What happens if we consistently consume more energy than we burn?

• We gain weight

• We lose weight

• Our metabolism slows down

• Our muscles grow stronger

Answer explanation

When we consistently consume more energy than we burn, our body stores the excess energy as fat, leading to weight gain. The other options, such as losing weight, slowing metabolism, or growing stronger muscles, are not the direct consequences of consuming more energy than we burn.

What is the main function of calories in our body?

• To support the basic functions of organs and tissues

• To enable digestion

• To fuel physical activity

• To raise the temperature of water

Answer explanation

Calories in our body primarily serve to support the basic functions of organs and tissues. They provide the energy needed for these functions. While calories do help fuel physical activity, their main role is not to enable digestion or to raise the temperature of water. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is 'To support the basic functions of organs and tissues'.

What is the average calorie count of a pizza slice?

• 272 calories

• 78 calories

• 52 calories

• 2000 calories

Answer explanation

The question asks about the average calorie count of a pizza slice. The correct answer is 272 calories. This is because the calorie count of a pizza slice can vary depending on the ingredients and size, but on average, it is around 272 calories. The other options provided are either too low or excessively high, making 272 calories the most reasonable estimate.

Which factor does NOT affect the number of calories a person requires?

• Average weight

• Physical activity

• Muscle mass

• Height

Answer explanation

Height does not affect the number of calories a person requires. Factors like average weight, physical activity, and muscle mass play a significant role in determining calorie requirements. A person's height, however, does not have a direct impact on their caloric needs.

Which type of food requires more energy to digest?

• Celery

• Potato chips

• Bread

• Apple

Answer explanation

Celery requires more energy to digest because it is high in fiber and low in calories. This makes it a 'negative calorie' food, meaning the body uses more energy to break it down and absorb its nutrients than the calories it provides. In contrast, potato chips, bread, and apples are higher in calories and require less energy to digest.

What can happen if someone consumes too many low-nutrient foods?

• They can become overweight and malnourished

• They can become underweight and malnourished

• Their metabolism will speed up

• Their muscles will grow stronger

Answer explanation

Consuming too many low-nutrient foods can lead to becoming overweight and malnourished. This is because these foods are often high in calories but lack essential nutrients, leading to weight gain and nutritional deficiencies. It is important to maintain a balanced diet with nutrient-dense foods to support overall health.

What happens if we consistently consume more energy than we burn?

• We will gain weight and potentially develop health issues.

• We will lose weight and become healthier.

• Our energy levels will increase and we will feel more energetic.

• There will be no impact on our health or weight.

Answer explanation

If we consistently consume more energy than we burn, our bodies store the excess energy as fat, leading to weight gain. Over time, this can lead to obesity and other health issues. Therefore, the correct answer is 'We will gain weight and potentially develop health issues.'