Duncan was a subject in a clinical study that was designed to determine the effects of certain diets on health. While participating in the study, he had to live in a special medical unit at the university hospital. He wasn't permitted to eat anything other than the synthetic formula diet provided by the researchers. The formula contained vitamins, choline, minerals, animal protein, purified water, and corn starch. Within a few weeks, Duncan developed patches of scaly skin on his arms and legs and bald spots on his head. When _____ were added to his formula, the signs of the nutritional deficiency disappeared.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Essential fatty acids are necessary for maintaining healthy skin and hair. Duncan's development of scaly skin and bald spots suggests a deficiency in these nutrients. Adding essential fatty acids to his formula would have resolved these symptoms. None of the other choices would have addressed this specific deficiency.

Duncan Was a Subject in a Clinical Study That Was