What defines a nutrient-dense food?

A nutrient-dense food is characterized by having a high concentration of vitamins and minerals relative to its calorie content. This means that for a given number of calories, these foods provide an abundance of essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds, which are crucial for health and well-being. This quality makes nutrient-dense foods valuable in a balanced diet, as they help meet nutritional needs without excessive calorie consumption.

In contrast, foods that are high in sodium are often not considered nutrient-dense, as they can contribute to health issues without providing beneficial nutrients. Empty calorie foods, typically high in sugars or unhealthy fats, offer little to no nutritional value, despite being high in calories. Foods that are dense in fiber can be beneficial for digestion and satiety, but fiber alone does not necessarily equate to being nutrient-dense unless the food also contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Thus, the correct definition of a nutrient-dense food is one that is high in vitamins and minerals per calorie.