What can a comprehensive nutritional assessment help identify?

• A. Only dietary preferences
• B. Only medical conditions
• C. Nutritional risks and needs
• D. Averages for nutrient intake

Answer: (C)

A comprehensive nutritional assessment is essential in identifying nutritional risks and needs because it evaluates an individual's dietary habits, lifestyle factors, medical history, and socioeconomic status. This detailed examination helps in recognizing potential deficiencies or imbalances in nutrient intake that may affect an individual's health.

By assessing various components such as dietary intake, biochemical data, clinical assessments, and anthropometric measurements, the practitioner can tailor nutritional interventions that address specific health concerns or lifestyle challenges. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects influencing an individual's nutrition are considered, enabling more effective and personalized nutrition counseling.

The focus on nutritional risks and needs highlights the proactive nature of assessments, aiming to prevent diseases related to poor nutrition before they occur.