NANP Board Practice Exam

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Prepare for the NANP Board Exam. Study with detailed questions and explanations on key topics. Enhance your understanding and boost your confidence for the exam.

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Which one of the following statements about butyric acid is false?

It is a long-chain fatty acid
It is found in butter
It is produced in the colon
It is used as energy source by colon cells

The correct answer is: It is a long-chain fatty acid

Butyric acid is a short-chain fatty acid, not a long-chain fatty acid. This compound consists of just four carbon atoms, placing it firmly in the category of short-chain fatty acids. Its structure is relatively simple compared to long-chain fatty acids, which typically contain twelve or more carbon atoms. In contrast, butyric acid is naturally found in various sources, most notably in butter, which is where it derives its name. It is also produced in the colon through the fermentation of dietary fibers by gut bacteria, highlighting its importance in gut health. Additionally, butyric acid serves a critical role as an energy source for colon cells, supporting their metabolic processes and contributing to overall intestinal health. Therefore, identifying butyric acid as a long-chain fatty acid is the incorrect statement.