Describe how physical activity influences nutritional needs at different life stages.

Physical activity plays a significant role in determining the nutritional needs of individuals across various life stages. As people engage in physical activity, their caloric expenditure increases, which in turn raises their overall energy needs. This is particularly important for growing children, active adolescents, and adults engaged in exercises or physically demanding jobs, as they require more energy to fuel their activities.

Moreover, increased physical activity impacts macronutrient requirements. Since carbohydrates are a primary source of energy for active individuals, those who are physically active will need an increased intake of carbohydrates to support performance and recovery. Additionally, protein needs may also rise to aid in muscle repair and synthesis after exercise, directly related to the volume and intensity of the physical activity performed. This dynamic alters the balance of macronutrients in the diet to ensure that energy levels are maintained and physical performance is optimized, reflecting why the correct option highlights the increase in caloric needs and the influence on macronutrient requirements due to physical activity.

The other options do not accurately reflect the relationship between physical activity and nutrition. For instance, suggesting that physical activity decreases overall energy needs overlooks the fact that it typically increases energy expenditure. Stating it has no effect on nutritional needs ignores the significant role that energy and nutrient demands change