Federal Nursing Home Administrator Practice Exam

What is the maximum recommended time interval between the supper and breakfast meals?

1. 10 hours

2. 12 hours

3. 14 hours

4. 16 hours

The correct answer is: 14 hours

The maximum recommended time interval between supper and breakfast meals is 14 hours, as this allows for a balanced approach to meal timing that supports metabolism and digestive health. This interval ensures that individuals do not go too long without nourishment, which could lead to feelings of hunger or poor energy levels in the morning. Letting 14 hours pass between supper and breakfast also aligns well with common meal patterns observed in various dietary guidelines, providing adequate time for digestion overnight while still promoting regular meal consumption. This helps to maintain consistent energy levels and supports overall health, particularly for elderly individuals who may be residing in nursing homes and require structured meal times for optimal care. Longer intervals, such as 16 hours, may lead to decreased food intake or higher susceptibility to hunger-related discomfort, which can negatively affect mood and willingness to eat the next meal. Likewise, shorter intervals of 10 or 12 hours may not provide adequate overnight fasting time, potentially disrupting natural metabolic processes. Thus, a 14-hour interval is considered a balance that promotes health and wellbeing.