Health-Fitness-and-Wellness WGU Health, Fitness, and Wellness (HIO1) Free Practice Exam Questions (2026 Updated)

Emotional health and wellness are strengthened by conditions that support stability, belonging, and balanced thinking. The three best choices areB (supportive emotional environment),D (feelings of acceptance), andE (realistic perceptions of success).

Asupportive emotional environmentincludes safe relationships, respectful communication, and encouragement from family, friends, teachers, or teammates. Support helps people manage stress, recover from setbacks, and feel comfortable expressing emotions in healthy ways.Feelings of acceptance—being valued and included—reduce isolation and can improve self-esteem. Acceptance supports resilience because people are more likely to seek help, participate in activities, and maintain healthy relationships when they feel they belong.

Realistic perceptions of successare also key. Emotional wellness improves when goals and expectations are achievable and flexible. Realistic thinking helps prevent chronic disappointment, perfectionism, and harsh self-judgment. It encourages learning from mistakes and celebrating progress, which promotes motivation and healthier self-talk.

The other options are less reliable as “positive impact” factors. Adependable work schedulecan help by providing structure, but it is not universally applicable (and for some people, work demands can increase stress).Treating yourself to a shopping spreemay feel good briefly, but it is not a consistent wellness strategy and can sometimes create additional stress (financial pressure or guilt). Wellness education emphasizes coping skills that build long-term stability—support networks, belonging, and realistic goal-setting—rather than short-term mood boosts.

Active listening is a key skill withinemotional intelligence, especially in workplaces where communication affects trust, morale, and performance. When a manager uses active listening, they are intentionally focusing on the speaker, asking clarifying questions, reflecting back what they heard, noticing tone and body language, and responding with respect. This supportsrecognizing and understanding the emotions of others, which is central to emotional intelligence and to strong social-emotional skills.

In a medical office, employees may experience pressure, time demands, and emotionally sensitive interactions. A manager who actively listens helps staff feel heard and valued, which can reduce stress and conflict. It also improves problem-solving: employees are more likely to share concerns early (workload issues, workflow barriers, interpersonal tension), allowing the manager to address problems before they escalate. Active listening supports psychological safety—people feel they can speak up without being dismissed—leading to better teamwork and a healthier work climate.

The other answer choices are less precise. “Pursuing happiness by working with other employees” is vague and doesn’t describe a specific communication skill. “Meeting needs through self-actualization” relates to personal growth and fulfillment rather than a manager’s interpersonal strategy during conversations. “Becoming optimistic” focuses on expecting positive outcomes, which can be helpful, but it is not what active listening specifically represents. Active listening is most directly tied to building emotional awareness, empathy, and relationship skills—makingboosting emotional intelligencethe best match.

Cross-contamination happens when harmful microorganisms (often from raw meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs) transfer to ready-to-eat foods such as fruits, vegetables, or cooked items. A highly effective prevention method isusing different cutting boards for meat and produce (A). This practice prevents raw juices or residue—potentially containing bacteria—from contacting foods that may not be cooked afterward. It’s especially important because many produce items are eaten raw, so any bacteria transferred onto them can be consumed.

While optionsBandCmay help organization or cooking efficiency, they are not as direct or comprehensive for preventing cross-contamination during food preparation. Storing food in separate freezer containers can reduce mixing and mess, but cross-contamination most commonly occurs duringprep on counters, boards, knives, and hands. Cooking foods in different pots and pans can help, yet bacteria are often transferred before foods reach the heat of cooking, and shared utensils or surfaces can still spread contaminants.

OptionD(rinsing produce) can reduce dirt and some surface contamination, but it does not address the main cross-contamination pathway from raw meat to produce via cutting boards and utensils. Also, rinsing cannot be relied on to remove all harmful microorganisms once contamination occurs. Using separate boards—along with washing knives, counters, and hands with soap and warm water after handling raw animal products—is a cornerstone safety habit taught in health and nutrition education.

In short,separating raw and ready-to-eat foods at the cutting board levelis one of the most effective, simple, and consistent ways to reduce food-borne illness risk.

This is an example ofsocial awareness (D)because it involves empathy and perspective-taking toward others—specifically, understanding the challenges faced byEnglish Language Learner (ELL)students. Social awareness includes recognizing differences in experiences, appreciating diversity, and seeking to understand how social, cultural, and language factors can affect participation, confidence, and learning.

ELL students may face struggles such as translating academic language, processing instructions quickly, participating in discussions, and worrying about making mistakes in front of peers. They may also experience cultural adjustment and reduced confidence when expressing complex ideas in a non-native language. Trying to understand these struggles shows empathy and respect, which are central to social awareness. It can lead to supportive behaviors such as speaking clearly, avoiding unnecessary jargon, offering written summaries, being patient during discussions, and encouraging inclusive participation.

The other competencies are not the best match.Self-managementfocuses on controlling one’s own emotions and behaviors.Executive functioninvolves planning, organization, and problem-solving.Communication and leadershipcan be used to support ELL students (for example, facilitating inclusive group work), but the core skill described—trying to understand others’ experiences—is most directly social awareness.

In SEL, social awareness helps build a welcoming learning environment where all students can succeed. When peers develop understanding of ELL challenges, it reduces stigma, improves cooperation, and strengthens a sense of belonging—important factors for emotional wellness, academic engagement, and positive group dynamics.

Antibodies are specializedproteinsmade by the immune system torecognize, bind to, and help neutralize harmful invaderssuch as bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. They are produced byB lymphocytes (B cells), which can develop into plasma cells that release large amounts of antibodies into the blood and lymph. Each antibody is designed to fit a specific target, called anantigen, much like a key fits a lock.

When antibodies bind to antigens on the surface of an invader, they help “inactivate” the threat in several important ways. First, they canneutralizepathogens directly by blocking their ability to enter body cells or release toxins. Second, antibodies cantag invaders for destruction—a process calledopsonization—making it easier for immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils to engulf and break down the pathogen. Third, antibodies can activate thecomplement system, a group of proteins that can puncture pathogen membranes or amplify immune responses.

It’s important to distinguish antibodies from the other options.Antigensare not immune proteins that protect you; they are theforeign markerson pathogens that antibodies recognize.Cytokinesare signaling proteins that coordinate immune activity (they “communicate” between cells rather than specifically binding invaders).Hormonesregulate body functions like metabolism, growth, and stress response, but they are not the primary proteins that recognize pathogens.

In health and wellness, strong immune function is supported by adequate sleep, balanced nutrition (especially protein, vitamins A/C/D, zinc), stress management, and regular physical activity—all of which help the body produce and regulate immune components, including antibodies.

Adiaphragmis a type ofbarrier contraception, meaning it works by physically blocking sperm from reaching the egg. It is a shallow, flexible cup that is placed inside the vagina to cover the cervix before sexual activity. Barrier methods reduce the chance of pregnancy by preventing sperm from entering the uterus. Diaphragms are often used withspermicideto increase effectiveness, and correct use (proper placement and timing) is important for best results.

The other options are not barrier methods. AnIUD(intrauterine device) is placed in the uterus and works through different mechanisms depending on type (copper or hormonal), but it does not function as a barrier placed over the cervix.The pillandthe patcharehormonal contraceptives. They mainly prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation (preventing release of an egg) and by changing cervical mucus and the uterine lining.

In physical and reproductive health education, contraception is often categorized by method type: barrier (condoms, diaphragm, cervical cap), hormonal (pill, patch, ring, injection, implant), and intrauterine (IUD). It’s also important to understand protection differences: many barrier methods (notablyexternal and internal condoms) can reduce risk of sexually transmitted infections, while most non-barrier hormonal and intrauterine methods do not protect against infections. This is why education often emphasizes choosing methods based on pregnancy prevention goals, health considerations, and whether STI protection is needed.

So, among the choices listed,the diaphragmis clearly the barrier contraceptive.

Cocaine is classified as astimulantbecause it speeds up activity in the central nervous system. Stimulants typically increase alertness, energy, and feelings of confidence or euphoria, while also raising heart rate and blood pressure. Cocaine produces these effects by strongly increasing certain brain chemicals involved in reward and arousal, which is why it can feel intensely reinforcing and is associated with high risk of dependence.

From a health perspective, stimulant effects also explain many of cocaine’s dangers. Short-term risks include rapid heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, agitation, anxiety, and impaired judgment. Because stimulants strain the cardiovascular system, cocaine use is associated with serious complications such as irregular heart rhythms, heart attack, stroke, overheating, and seizures—sometimes even in younger people. The risk increases with higher doses, repeated use, mixing with other substances, or underlying health conditions.

The other categories listed do not fit cocaine’s primary effects.Opioids(such as heroin or certain prescription pain medicines) generally slow breathing and are known for pain relief and sedation.Depressants(such as alcohol or certain sedatives) slow down brain activity, often causing drowsiness and impaired coordination.Cannabinoidsare substances related to cannabis and have a different pattern of effects on perception, mood, and coordination. Cocaine’s hallmark is stimulation—higher energy, faster body processes, and increased nervous system activity—sostimulantsis the correct classification.

Understanding drug categories is important in health education because it helps explain expected effects, risks, signs of misuse, and why combining substances can be especially dangerous.

A core dimension ofsocial healthisdeveloping interpersonal relationships. Social health refers to how well a person connects with others, communicates, builds trust, resolves conflict, and maintains supportive networks. Healthy interpersonal relationships can include friendships, family connections, teammates, classmates, mentors, and community groups. Strong social ties are linked with better coping during stress, greater belonging, and improved overall well-being.

In Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), developing interpersonal relationships involves skills such as empathy, active listening, respectful communication, cooperation, and setting healthy boundaries. It also includes the ability to seek help when needed and to offer support to others appropriately. Social health is not simply “being popular”; it is about building relationships that are respectful, safe, and mutually supportive.

The other options are not direct dimensions of social health.Seeking physical wellnessrelates primarily to physical health behaviors (activity, sleep, hygiene, medical care).Completing an undergraduate degreeis an educational achievement, which may influence social opportunities but is not itself a dimension of social health.Focusing efforts on workplace successrelates to career development and achievement; it can involve social skills, but it is not the definition of social health.

Social health matters in daily life because relationships influence choices and habits: friends and family can encourage healthy behaviors, provide emotional support, and help a person feel connected. In wellness education, students are often encouraged to practice communication skills, conflict resolution, and community involvement because these strengthen social health and contribute to healthier emotional functioning.

Low-fat dairy products are emphasized in many balanced-diet frameworks because they provide key nutrients—especiallycalcium and protein—while helping limitexcess saturated fat. Calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, supporting normal muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. Adequate calcium intake across the lifespan helps reduce the risk of bone thinning with age. Protein supports tissue growth and repair, immune function, and the maintenance of lean body mass, which is important for metabolic health and physical performance.

Many low-fat dairy options (like low-fat milk, yogurt, and reduced-fat cheese) also contributevitamin Dwhen fortified, which assists calcium absorption and supports bone health. Yogurt can additionally support gut health when it contains live cultures. Choosing low-fat versions can be helpful because saturated fat intake is commonly advised to be moderate; low-fat dairy helps individuals meet calcium and protein goals without pushing saturated fat too high.

The incorrect choices contain misleading or false nutrition statements. While dairy can contain small amounts of thiamin, it is not typically highlighted as the main reason for dairy inclusion. Dairy isnota major source of iron, and the statement about iron increasing absorption of fat into red blood cells is inaccurate. Finally, dairy does contain carbohydrates (lactose), but glucose isnotthe only fuel the brain can use; the brain can also use ketones during certain metabolic states. The strongest, most document-consistent rationale is that low-fat dairy providescalcium and proteinthat support bone and tissue health.

Astrokeoccurs when blood flow to part of the brain is suddenly blocked (ischemic stroke) or a blood vessel in the brain ruptures (hemorrhagic stroke). Because brain tissue depends on a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients, even a brief interruption can cause rapid loss of function in the area of the brain that controls speech, movement, or vision. That is why stroke symptoms often appearsuddenlyand may affect only one side of the body.

The symptoms described—numbness in one arm,difficulty speaking, andblurred vision—are well-known warning signs of stroke. Many health education resources teach the FAST or BE FAST approach: facial drooping, arm weakness/numbness, speech difficulty, and urgency of time; vision changes are also commonly included as stroke warning signs. These symptoms reflect brain involvement rather than a problem starting in the heart or digestive system.

The other options do not match as closely. Aheart attacktypically causes chest pressure/pain, shortness of breath, sweating, and sometimes arm or jaw pain—but it does not usually present with sudden one-sided numbness, speech disturbance, and vision changes as the main features.Metabolic syndromeis a long-term cluster of risk factors (such as abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, and insulin resistance), not a sudden neurological event.Epilepsycan cause seizures, confusion, or loss of consciousness, but the specific combination of one-sided numbness with speech and vision changes is more characteristic of stroke.

From a wellness perspective, this question reinforces two essentials: (1)recognitionof stroke signs, and (2)immediate action, because rapid treatment can reduce brain damage and improve outcomes. If these symptoms occur, emergency services should be contacted urgently.

Vitamins and minerals are categorized asmicronutrientsbecause the body needs them insmall amountsto support essential functions, even though they donotprovide calories (energy). They play critical roles in maintaining normal growth, immune function, bone health, blood formation, nerve signaling, and metabolism. For example, vitamins such asA, C, D, E, K, and theB-complexhelp regulate processes like vision, collagen formation, calcium absorption, antioxidant defense, and energy metabolism. Minerals such ascalcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and iodinesupport bone structure, oxygen transport, fluid balance, muscle contraction, enzyme activity, and thyroid function.

Micronutrients differ frommacronutrients(carbohydrates, fats, and proteins), which are needed in larger quantities and supply the body with energy and building materials. In a balanced diet, macronutrients provide fuel and tissue-building components, while micronutrients help the bodyuse that fuel effectivelyand keep organs and systems functioning properly.

The other options are not correct categories for vitamins and minerals.Antioxidantsdescribe substances that help protect cells from oxidative damage; some vitamins (like C and E) act as antioxidants, but not all vitamins and minerals are classified that way.Essential amino acidsare the building blocks of protein that must come from food; they are not vitamins or minerals. Therefore, “micronutrients” is the broad, accurate classification that includes both vitamins and minerals, highlighting their importance despite the small amounts required.