Which of the following is a nutrient-dense food?

• A. Soda
• B. Chips
• C. Spinach
• D. Candy

Answer: (C)

Nutrient density means getting a lot of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients for relatively few calories. Spinach fits this idea well: a serving delivers substantial amounts of vitamin A, vitamin K, folate, iron, and other nutrients while staying very low in calories. This balance helps you meet micronutrient needs without overdoing calories, which is what makes it nutrient-dense.

In comparison, soda, chips, and candy provide calories mainly from sugar or fat but offer little in the way of essential nutrients. They can add energy with minimal vitamins or minerals, so they’re not nutrient-dense.