Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Balancing caloric intake with physical activity is a fundamental strategy for successful weight management because it emphasizes the concept of energy balance. When you consume calories through food and beverages, those calories need to be appropriately utilized by the body to maintain or adjust weight. By matching caloric intake with the energy expended through physical activity, individuals can achieve or sustain a healthy weight.

This approach encourages mindful eating, allowing for a variety of food choices without overly restrictive diets that may be difficult to maintain long term. Additionally, regular physical activity is crucial not only for burning calories but also for improving metabolic health, building muscle, and enhancing overall well-being.

Other strategies, such as restricting all carbohydrates or avoiding all fats, can lead to nutrient deficiencies and are typically unsustainable long-term. They do not promote a balanced diet which is vital for overall health. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can be beneficial for some individuals in managing hunger and promoting better blood sugar control, but it is not essential for everyone and doesn’t directly address total caloric balance.