Question

Balanced diet should have approximately
(A) 1/5 protein, 3/5 fats and 1/5 carbohydrates
(B) 3/5 protein, 1/5 fats and 1/5 carbohydrates
(C) 1/5 protein, 1/5 fats and 3/5 carbohydrates
(D) 1/2 protein, 1/4 fats and 3/5 carbohydrates

Answer 1

Hint: Nutrition is a critical part of health and development for all organisms. Most of the nutrients are derived from food and are metabolised by the body through digestion. A well-balanced diet maintains the physical, mental and overall well being of the individual.

Complete answer:
We all eat food every day, which acts as our fuel to do our daily tasks. So it becomes important for us to know and learn about a balanced diet. A balanced diet is one that contains diverse foods in certain quantities to meet our daily calorie requirement as well as other nutrients and vitamins necessary for the body. The nutrients needed can be classified into the following:
> Proteins
> Carbohydrates
> Vitamins
> Dietary fibre
> Fats
> Water
> Minerals
All these elements in different proportions build, maintain, and regulate the cells. Out of these, carbohydrates, fats and proteins are the major source of energy. The recommended calorie intake for men and women are 2500 and 2000 calories per day respectively. However, this amount is dependent on the age, physical activity and metabolism of the individual. These calories should also be consumed in a balanced way such that it contains 50-60% carbohydrates, 15-20% proteins and 25-30% fat. The sources of these nutrients should also be taken care of. For instance, carbohydrates should be from complex carbohydrates like whole grains, proteins from lean protein sources like pulses and unsaturated fats from fishes.

Thus, a balanced diet should have approximately (C) 1/5 protein, 1/5 fats and 3/5 carbohydrates.

Note:
Balanced diet is indispensable for health. However, to reap the complete benefits of diet, physical activity is necessary. Physical activity through sports or exercise increases the individual’s endurance and muscle strength. It improves the functions of heart, lungs and other vital organs by delivering the nutrients and oxygen and thus enhancing the overall efficiency of the individual.