What percentage of daily energy intake should carbohydrates represent for a general population?

Carbohydrates should represent 45-65% of daily energy intake for the general population, as recommended by various dietary guidelines, including those from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This range is supported by extensive research demonstrating the crucial role carbohydrates play in providing energy, particularly for the brain, central nervous system, and during physical activity.

Carbohydrates serve as the body's primary source of fuel, and consuming them within this range supports optimal energy levels and performance for individuals with varied activity levels. Additionally, this percentage allows for sufficient intake of essential nutrients found in carbohydrate-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, which are important for overall health.

In contrast, lower percentages of carbohydrate intake, such as those in the other choices, may not provide adequate energy or may lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients. Diets with such restricted carbohydrate intake can impact energy levels and overall health, particularly in populations with higher physical activity requirements. Therefore, the recommendation for carbohydrates to constitute 45-65% of total calorie intake is intended to promote health and well-being across diverse populations.