What is the primary purpose of dietary guidelines?

The primary purpose of dietary guidelines is to provide evidence-based recommendations for food choices. These guidelines are developed by health authorities and organizations to promote overall health and prevent chronic diseases through informed dietary practices. They are created based on extensive scientific research and aim to offer clear advice on how to achieve a balanced diet, improve nutritional intake, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. By focusing on evidence-based practices, these recommendations help individuals make informed decisions about their diet in a way that supports long-term health goals.

The other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of dietary guidelines. Increasing calorie intake does not align with health goals for many populations, especially in the context of rising obesity rates. Promoting fad diets contradicts the objective of providing consistent and sustainable nutritional advice, as fad diets often lack scientific backing and can lead to imbalanced nutrition. Regulating the food industry is a different function that involves policy-making and enforcement rather than directly providing dietary guidance to consumers.