What do Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) assist consumers with?

Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) are a set of reference values used to assess and plan dietary intake for healthy individuals. They provide guidance on the appropriate amounts of various nutrients needed to maintain good health, prevent disease, and avoid excessive intake. By offering specific recommendations for different age and gender groups, DRIs enable consumers to compare the nutritional values of different foods effectively.

This understanding helps individuals make informed dietary choices, allowing them to assess whether their current food intake meets the standards set forth for essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients. As a result, it directly supports consumers in making healthier food choices based on their nutritional needs.

In contrast, the other options relate to aspects of dietary decisions but do not align directly with the primary function of DRIs. They do not provide direct help with interpreting food advertising, choosing exercise programs, or tracking calorie intake, which are separate areas of focus in nutrition and health.