What do high nutrient-dense foods typically provide?

High nutrient-dense foods are characterized by providing essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds while being relatively low in calories. This means that they offer a significant amount of nutrition without contributing excessively to caloric intake. For example, foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins are considered nutrient-dense because they supply vital nutrients that support health, growth, and development, making them an excellent choice for maintaining a balanced diet.

In contrast, options highlighting high calories or minimal vitamins and minerals do not align with the definition of nutrient-dense foods. Similarly, options that suggest high levels of unhealthy fat also contradict the concept of nutrient density, which tends to focus on healthier, more beneficial components rather than unhealthy additives. Thus, the focus on essential nutrients with fewer calories accurately describes the role and benefit of high nutrient-dense foods.