Which of the following statements is true?

• A. The RDA for carbohydrates (130g/day) is the same for mostly everyone over the age of one.
• B. The % of Calories that should be obtained from fat gradually increases throughout the early years of life.
• C. A vegetarian diet is always a bad idea for young children under the age of 12.
• D. Relative to bodyweight, protein intake should increase as children age from 1 to 11 years old.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the meaning of RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) for carbohydrates, which is set at 130 grams per day for most individuals over the age of one. This value is based on the minimum amount of glucose needed by the brain and central nervous system.
2. Step 2: Analyze the statement about fat intake: The percentage of calories from fat actually decreases as children grow older, because energy needs shift and dietary guidelines recommend lower fat intake after infancy.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the claim about vegetarian diets for children under 12: A well-planned vegetarian diet can be nutritionally adequate for children, so it is not always a bad idea; proper planning is key.
4. Step 4: Consider protein needs relative to body weight: Protein requirements per kilogram of body weight tend to decrease as children grow older, because growth rate slows down, so protein intake relative to body weight does not increase.
5. Step 5: Based on these analyses, identify the true statement by comparing each option to established nutrition guidelines and scientific evidence.