What characterizes a balanced diet?

A balanced diet is characterized by including a variety of foods in appropriate proportions, ensuring that an individual receives all the essential nutrients the body needs for optimal health. This includes carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. A balanced diet promotes growth, maintenance, and overall well-being, allowing the body to function effectively.

The correct answer highlights the importance of variety and proportion, acknowledging that no single food group can provide all the nutrients needed. Foods from all major groups will allow for the right balance of energy and nutrients required for everyday activities.

In contrast, diets focused solely on fruits and vegetables can lack essential nutrients found in other food groups, such as protein and healthy fats. Likewise, a diet that entirely restricts carbohydrates disregards an important energy source necessary for bodily functions and may lead to nutritional deficiencies. Similarly, a diet excessively high in protein and low in fats may not provide a balanced intake of macronutrients, which can cause imbalances and health issues over time. Thus, the emphasis on a variety of foods in the correct proportions is what defines a balanced diet.