What is meant by a balanced diet?

A balanced diet refers to a dietary pattern that provides all the necessary nutrients—such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals—in the right proportions to support overall health and well-being. This concept emphasizes the importance of variety and moderation in food choices, ensuring that the body receives what it needs to function properly without excess or deficiency.

A diet that provides all necessary nutrients in correct proportions is essential for maintaining energy levels, supporting bodily functions, and preventing nutrition-related diseases. Each nutrient plays a specific role in the body; for example, carbohydrates are crucial for energy, while proteins are vital for growth and repair. Fats also have important functions, including supporting cell structure and acting as a source of essential fatty acids.

Other options present more restrictive or incomplete dietary patterns. A diet consisting only of carbohydrates lacks essential nutrients from other food groups, while a diet limited to just fruits and vegetables might be deficient in proteins and healthy fats. Similarly, a diet focused solely on high-protein foods may ignore the need for carbohydrates and vitamins that are also critical for a well-rounded diet. Therefore, option B is the most comprehensive and accurate definition of what constitutes a balanced diet.