What is a balanced diet?

A balanced diet is best defined as one that includes a variety of nutrients from different food groups in appropriate proportions. This approach ensures that an individual receives essential vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats necessary for overall health and well-being. Each of these food groups plays a critical role in bodily functions, and consuming a diverse array of foods helps to prevent deficiencies and promotes optimal metabolism and health.

Focusing solely on protein, consuming primarily carbohydrates, or excluding all fats does not provide the comprehensive array of nutrients that the body needs. A diet overly concentrated on any one nutrient—whether it be proteins, carbohydrates, or fats—can lead to imbalances and health issues, such as malnutrition or excess intake of certain substances, potentially resulting in adverse health effects. Therefore, the key to a balanced diet is moderation and variety, making option A the most accurate definition.