Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Which of the following best defines functional foods?

1. Foods that are only enjoyed for their taste

2. Foods that are high in calories

3. Foods that provide additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition

4. Foods that are primarily processed and pre-packaged

The correct answer is: Foods that provide additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition

The correct definition of functional foods is indeed that they provide additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition. This concept encompasses a wide range of food products that not only meet basic dietary needs but also contribute positively to health and well-being due to certain ingredients or nutritional attributes. For instance, foods enriched with vitamins, minerals, probiotics, or omega-3 fatty acids are considered functional foods because they can have specific positive impacts on health, such as improving heart health, boosting the immune system, or enhancing gut health. The understanding of functional foods aligns perfectly with the modern emphasis on nutrition as a proactive element of health management. In contrast, the other options describe different characteristics of food rather than encapsulating the concept of functional foods. Foods that are only enjoyed for their taste are often appreciated for sensory qualities without reference to health benefits. Likewise, while high-calorie foods might provide energy, they do not necessarily confer additional health advantages. Lastly, foods that are primarily processed and pre-packaged might not inherently offer additional health benefits, as processing can sometimes strip away nutritional value rather than enhance it.