Ace the 2025 Nutrition Precision Exam – Fuel Your Future with Knowledge!

Overly restrictive diets can lead to nutritional deficiencies and disordered eating patterns because they often eliminate entire food groups or limit caloric intake to an extent that is not sustainable or healthy in the long term. When specific nutrients are cut out, the body may not receive essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients necessary for optimal functioning. This can result in deficiencies that can impact various health aspects, such as bone strength, immune function, and overall energy levels.

Moreover, such restrictive practices can create unhealthy relationships with food. Individuals may experience feelings of guilt or failure when deviating from the diet, leading to cycles of binging and restriction, which characterize disordered eating patterns. These behaviors can ultimately make it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight and can contribute to long-term mental health issues related to body image and food.

In contrast, the other options suggest outcomes that typically do not arise from overly restrictive diets. Weight gain and metabolic syndrome are more associated with extreme dieting followed by cycles of binge eating rather than a direct consequence of restriction itself. Increased energy levels and motivation or improved cardiovascular health are unlikely outcomes of maintaining a diet that is too limiting. Rather, sustainable and balanced eating patterns are needed to support overall health and well-being.