Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Certified Dietary Manager Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Improve your knowledge with hints and explanations.

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What is the main purpose of digestion?

To absorb all food directly into the bloodstream
To break down food into nutrients
To eliminate waste from the body
To convert food into energy

The correct answer is: To break down food into nutrients

The primary purpose of digestion is to break down food into nutrients. This process involves the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food so that it can be absorbed by the body. Once food is digested, the nutrients—like carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals—can be utilized by the body for various functions such as growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. While absorption, energy conversion, and waste elimination are components related to digestion, they are not its main purpose. Digestion specifically focuses on transforming the complex food substances into simpler forms, which are then available for absorption and utilization in the body. It is this breakdown process that enables the body to capture the vital nutrients needed for overall health and well-being.