Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Which of the following foods contains all essential amino acids?

1. Complete proteins

2. Complex carbohydrates

3. Simple carbohydrates

4. Incomplete proteins

The correct answer is: Complete proteins

The correct selection identifies complete proteins as those that contain all essential amino acids necessary for human health. Essential amino acids are amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through diet. Foods such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, and certain plant sources like quinoa and soy provide all the essential amino acids, making them complete proteins. In contrast, other food categories listed, like complex carbohydrates and simple carbohydrates, do not pertain to protein content and thus do not provide amino acids. Incomplete proteins, often found in plant sources like legumes and grains, contain some but not all essential amino acids. Hence, they cannot fulfill the body's needs for all essential amino acids on their own. The distinction of complete proteins is vital for ensuring a balanced diet that supports overall health and various bodily functions.