Identifying the number of servings per food group and limiting the amount of empty calories consumed helps to ensure that daily caloric consumption is?

The focus on identifying the number of servings per food group and limiting the intake of empty calories is central to ensuring that daily caloric consumption is nutrient dense. Nutrient-dense foods are those that provide a high amount of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients relative to their calorie content. By prioritizing foods that are rich in essential nutrients while controlling the intake of foods high in added sugars and unhealthy fats—commonly referred to as empty calories—individuals can optimize their nutritional intake. This balanced approach enhances overall health, supports physiological functions, and helps to maintain a healthy weight.

In this context, nutrient density is key because it emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity in one's diet. This means selecting whole, minimally processed foods from various food groups to meet caloric needs while maximizing nutrient availability, which promotes better long-term health outcomes. The other choices, while related to dietary considerations, do not capture this specific goal of maximizing nutrient intake relative to caloric consumption as accurately.