Q.62 Choose the correct statements from those given below:

A. A balanced diet contains carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamin and some dietary fibre.
B. Deficiency of Vitamin E leads to pellagra.
C. Nutraceuticals are the substances present in food that can have specific pharmacological properties.
D. Patients suffering from phenylketonuria are advised to limit the consumption of phenylalanine in their diet.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. A, B, C, D
2. B, C only
3. A, C, D only
4. A, B, C only

   A. is correct. A balanced diet provides all essential nutrients including carbohydrates for energy, proteins for growth and repair, fats for hormone production, vitamins and minerals for metabolic functions, and dietary fibre for digestion.

   B. is incorrect. Pellagra results from niacin (vitamin B3) deficiency, not vitamin E; vitamin E deficiency causes issues like nerve damage or muscle weakness.

   C. is correct. Nutraceuticals are bioactive food components with specific pharmacological effects, such as disease prevention or health promotion beyond basic nutrition.

   D. is correct. Phenylketonuria (PKU) patients cannot metabolize phenylalanine properly due to enzyme deficiency, so they must restrict it in diet to avoid toxic buildup.

   Correct Option: A, C, D only

   Balanced diet, vitamin deficiencies, nutraceuticals, and phenylketonuria management are core topics in molecular biology and human nutrition for competitive exams like GATE Life Sciences. This guide breaks down a multiple-choice question on these concepts, verifying each statement with scientific accuracy to aid your preparation.

   Balanced Diet Components

   A balanced diet contains carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, and dietary fibre, ensuring optimal health and preventing deficiencies. Carbohydrates provide primary energy, proteins support tissue repair, fats aid absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, while fibre promotes gut health.

   Vitamin E Deficiency Facts

   Deficiency of vitamin E does not lead to pellagra; that’s a classic sign of niacin (B3) shortage, causing dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, and its lack primarily affects nerves and muscles in rare cases.

   Nutraceuticals Pharmacological Properties

   Nutraceuticals are substances in food with specific pharmacological properties, like omega-3s for inflammation reduction or ginseng for immune support, bridging nutrition and therapy. They offer benefits in areas like cardiovascular health and cancer prevention without being drugs.

   Phenylketonuria Diet Restrictions

   Patients with phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic disorder from phenylalanine hydroxylase deficiency, must limit phenylalanine intake to prevent brain damage from metabolite accumulation. This involves phenylalanine-free formulas and monitored protein sources from infancy.