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Balanced diet

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Balanced diet

Definition:

A balanced diet refers to intake of appropriate types and adequate amounts of foods and drinks to supply nutrition and energy for the maintenance of body cells, tissues, and organs, and to support normal growth and development.

Alternative Names:
Well-balanced diet

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Function:

A well-balanced diet acts to provide sources of energy and nutrition for optimal growth and development.

References:

Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005. Rockville, MD: US Dept of Health and Human Services and US Dept of Agriculture; 2005.

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