nutrient-dense
NOO-tree-ent-dens
/ˈnuːtriənt dɛns/
Food that is high in nutrients but relatively low in calories.
The opposite of 'empty calories.' It focuses on the ratio of vitamins/minerals to energy content.
The story behind the word. This is a modern compound term. 'Nutrient' comes from the Latin 'nutrire' (to suckle or nourish), and 'dense' comes from 'densus' (thick). It describes food that is 'thick with nourishment.'
Word relationships
- nourishing: A simpler, warmer term for providing good health.
- wholesome: Implies healthiness but is less scientific than nutrient-dense.
- calorie-dense: High in calories but often low in nutrients.
- empty-calorie: Providing energy but no significant nutritional value.
Commonly confused with
- energy-dense: Energy-dense means high in calories; nutrient-dense means high in vitamins/minerals.
Collocations
- nutrient-dense foods
- nutrient-dense diet
- highly nutrient-dense
Example sentences
- "Choosing nutrient-dense foods like spinach and salmon helps maintain a healthy weight." Healthy eating guide.
- "A nutrient-dense diet is essential for preventing chronic diseases in a sedentary population." Nutritionist's advice.
Memory hook
Think of a 'Dense' forest of 'Nutrients'—every inch is packed with life-giving stuff. Nutrient-dense: Packed with goodness.
When not to use
Don't use it for foods that are high in calories but low in vitamins (like butter), even if they are 'dense.'
Fun facts
- Vegetables like kale and seaweed are among the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet.
Related words
Explore more words
nutritional, calorie, micronutrient, macronutrient, nutrient, fortified
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