[Solved] Snacks Better Fits Melanie

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Tom and Jessica are best friends, but they couldn’t be more different when it comes to their diets. Tom spends a lot of time in the gym surrounded by body builders and has adopted a very protein-heavy diet, complemented by small amounts of vegetables and a vitamin/mineral supplement, which he now sells. Jessica has never liked the taste of meat and is now a vegan who eats only organic foods. She believes in a sustainable lifestyle and her vegan diet reflects that belief. Tom believes that Jessica would be healthier and have more energy if she would just use the vitamin/mineral supplement that he sells. He believes that his supplement provides the energy in his very low carbohydrate diet and is a good substitute for whole grains and fruit. He points to his body-building magazines as proof that his diet is healthy. Jessica’s family has always embraced a vegetarian, although not vegan, lifestyle. She believes that Tom’s lifestyle is not very healthy and provides him with information from several nutritional research studies on the importance of all food groups to good health. 

Question 1: Are Tom’s beliefs that his vitamin/mineral supplement provides energy and is a good replacement for whole grains and fruits correct according to nutritional science and dietary guidelines? Why or why not? Include in your response specific data, facts, examples, key terminology and other information drawn from the textbook and at least one other supplemental source. 

Melanie is 26 years old and at a healthy body weight. To maintain her weight, she requires 1,800 kcalories/day. She’s trying to reduce her salt and sugar consumption and is lactose intolerant. Melanie usually eats very healthfully and has fruits and vegetables available for snacking. However, that’s not the case today as she hasn’t had time to shop. Melanie is trying to decide which is the healthiest option between two different snacks she has on hand by comparing the food labels. 

Question 2: Use the information on the label to determine which of these snacks better fits Melanie’s dietary goals and needs, and explain your answer. Include in your response specific data, facts, examples, key terminology and other information drawn from the textbook and at least one other supplemental source.