In the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, what are discretionary calories?

• A. Calories that come only from protein-rich foods such as lean meats, beans, and low-fat dairy
• B. Calories remaining after meeting nutrient needs with nutrient-dense foods, which can be used for added sugars, solid fats, alcohol, or extra servings
• C. Calories that must be consumed daily to meet the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for vitamins and minerals
• D. Calories that are burned through physical activity and therefore do not count toward total energy intake

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that discretionary calories refer to the calories left over after an individual has met their nutrient needs through consuming nutrient-dense foods. Nutrient-dense foods provide vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial substances with relatively few calories.
2. Recognize that once the body’s essential nutrient requirements are satisfied, the remaining calories can be used for less nutrient-dense options such as added sugars, solid fats, alcohol, or extra servings of food.
3. Differentiate discretionary calories from calories that come exclusively from protein-rich foods or those required to meet Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for vitamins and minerals, as these are not the definition of discretionary calories.
4. Also, understand that discretionary calories are not related to calories burned through physical activity; rather, they pertain to how calories are allocated within the diet after nutrient needs are met.
5. Summarize that discretionary calories represent the energy allowance available for foods and beverages that provide little nutritional benefit beyond energy, emphasizing the importance of balancing these within a healthy diet.