How does the energy value of food vary with the amount consumed?

The selection of the first option highlights a fundamental aspect of nutrition: energy density. Energy-dense foods are those that contain a high number of calories per unit of weight or volume. When an individual consumes more of these energy-dense foods, the total caloric intake increases significantly because each bite delivers a higher number of calories. This is particularly important for understanding dietary choices and managing weight.

In contrast, the other options either represent misunderstandings of nutritional principles or lack the link between food consumption and caloric intake. For example, the assertion about carbohydrates leading to fewer calories is misleading. Carbohydrates are a primary source of energy and their caloric value can contribute significantly to total calorie intake, depending on the quantity consumed. Similarly, the idea that caloric intake does not depend on the amount of food contradicts basic nutritional science, as consuming larger quantities typically leads to higher caloric consumption. Lastly, suggesting that eating more fruits lowers calorie intake overlooks the fact that fruits, while generally lower in calories compared to energy-dense foods, still contribute to overall caloric intake based on how much is consumed.

Thus, the connection between the quantity of food consumed and energy consumption is directly illustrated by recognizing that more energy-dense foods lead to a higher total