Final answer:
A balanced diet through whole foods is preferable to relying on supplements or enriched and fortified foods because whole foods contain beneficial substances that promote good health, processing foods can cause nutrient losses, and relying on supplements or processed foods can lead to a diet lacking in essential nutrients.
Step-by-step explanation:
A balanced diet through whole foods is preferable to relying on supplements or enriched and fortified foods for several reasons. Firstly, whole foods contain a wide range of beneficial substances, such as phytochemicals and fiber, that promote good health and cannot be replicated in supplements or processed foods. Secondly, processing foods can lead to nutrient losses, which may not be fully compensated for by fortification or enrichment. Finally, relying on supplements or processed foods can result in a diet lacking in essential nutrients, increasing the risk of various diseases and conditions.