Key Terms
Dietary Reference Intake (DRI)
Scientifically developed reference values; set baseline standards for daily nutritional intake.
Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA)
USDA guidelines for daily nutrient intake; based on DRIs; used to develop food labels and guide meal planning.
Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
Average daily intake of a population (distinct from RDA).
Basal metabolic rate (BMR)
The rate at which calories are burned.
Metabolism
Process by which substances are chemically broken down to meet the body's nutrient and energy needs.
Metabolic homeostasis
Balance between caloric intake and caloric need.
Caloric excess
Energy stored as fat; leads to obesity, metabolic syndrome, chronic disease.
Caloric deficit
Body metabolizes stored energy in this order: 1. Glycogen (stored carbohydrates in the liver) 2.
USDA range
1,000 to 3,200 calories/day depending on individual.
Individual needs vary by
Age, sex, height, weight, health status, activity level.
Ideal body weight (IBW)
Weight correlated with positive health benefits; influenced by height, weight, body frame, age, and sex.
Body mass index (BMI)
Tool analyzing height and weight relative to standards; also considers age and sex. Does NOT account for body fat distri
Waist circumference
Relative indicator of excess fat storage in the midsection.
Growth charts
Developed by CDC and WHO; track physical growth trends in children.
Macronutrient
Nutrient consumed in large quantities to meet the body's energy needs.