HESI A2 Reading Comprehension

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. A vegetarian diet typically does not lower the need for protein as it is essential for various bodily functions. A balanced vegetarian diet can still provide sufficient protein through sources like beans, lentils, nuts, and tofu. Choice B is incorrect since a vegetarian diet can help reduce body fat due to its focus on plant-based foods. Choice C is incorrect as vegetarian diets are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease due to their emphasis on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Choice D is incorrect because a vegetarian diet can help lower cholesterol levels by avoiding saturated fats found in animal products.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Sleeping does not help with appetite. During sleep, our bodies focus on rest and repair rather than regulating appetite. Sleep is crucial for managing fatigue (A), consolidating memories (B), and enhancing learning (C). Lack of sleep can lead to increased hunger and disrupted appetite regulation, making it clear that sleep does not directly impact appetite. In summary, while sleep plays a vital role in overall health and cognitive functions, it does not specifically target appetite regulation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Exposure to toxins. FRAX is a tool used to assess fracture risk based on factors such as lifestyle choices, genetic heritage, and exposure to sunlight. Toxins are not directly related to bone health and fracture risk, so they are not considered in FRAX calculations. Lifestyle choices, genetic heritage, and sunlight exposure can impact bone density and fracture risk, making them relevant factors. Therefore, exposure to toxins is the exception in this context.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because "pulses" in the context of the first paragraph refers to the edible seeds produced by legumes. Legumes such as peas, beans, or lentils are commonly known as pulses in the culinary world. This meaning fits the context of discussing plant-based protein sources. Choice A is incorrect as it describes the throbbing of arteries, not relevant to the topic. Choice B is incorrect as it refers to public attitudes, unrelated to the discussion of food. Choice D is incorrect as it defines animal-based foods, not pulses, which are plant-based.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the passage focuses on the issue of lack of adequate sleep becoming a major national health problem. The passage discusses how sleep deprivation can lead to various health issues and highlights the importance of addressing this problem at a national level. This main idea is supported throughout the passage, making it the most relevant choice. A: The passage does not primarily focus on the CDC monitoring health issues, so this choice is incorrect. B: The passage does not compare the sleep needs of children and adults, making this choice irrelevant. C: While the passage mentions people staying up at night, it is not the main idea but rather a contributing factor to the larger issue of lack of sleep being a health problem.