NAFC Lifestyle Consultant Practice Exam

The diet that specifically emphasizes protein intake while minimizing carbohydrates is the ketogenic diet. It is designed to shift the body's metabolism from relying primarily on carbohydrates for energy to utilizing fats, which occurs through a state known as ketosis.

In a ketogenic diet, a significant portion of calorie intake comes from fats, with moderate protein consumption and very low levels of carbohydrates, typically around 5-10% of total caloric intake. This encourages the body to burn fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates, making it distinctly different from the low-carb diet that may not prioritize protein to the same extent.

While a low-carb diet also reduces carbohydrate intake, it is broader in terms of macronutrient composition and does not specifically emphasize high protein intake. The paleo diet focuses on whole, unprocessed foods similar to those eaten by early humans, and while it includes protein, its approach to carbohydrate intake can vary widely. Lastly, a vegetarian diet does not focus on protein intake specifically; instead, it eliminates meat and may include a variety of other foods.

In summary, the ketogenic diet stands out as the option that distinctly prioritizes protein while significantly limiting carbohydrates, aligning with the question's criteria.