Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What can drug-nutrient interactions potentially cause?

1. Nutrient overdose

2. Nutrient malabsorption

3. Increased appetite

4. Weight loss

The correct answer is: Nutrient malabsorption

Drug-nutrient interactions can potentially cause nutrient malabsorption because certain medications can affect the way nutrients are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. For instance, some drugs may alter the pH of the stomach, bind to specific nutrients, or interfere with the mechanisms that transportation of nutrients into the bloodstream. These interactions can impair the absorption of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients, which can lead to deficiencies and impact overall health. Understanding these interactions is crucial for dietary managers, as it allows them to better advise individuals on maintaining optimal nutrition while undergoing medical treatment. In contrast, nutrient overdose typically occurs from excessive intake of dietary supplements or fortified foods rather than drug interactions. Increased appetite and weight loss may not directly result from drug-nutrient interactions but rather from the effects of medications on the body’s metabolism or hormonal balance.