Final answer:
The correct option is option (b), 50 grams. For women, the approximate recommended portion size of carbohydrate-dense foods per meal is 50 grams, based on the guideline that 55% of daily calories should be from carbohydrates in a 2,000-calorie diet.
Step-by-step explanation:
The American Heart Association recommends that about 55% of your daily caloric intake should come from carbohydrates. Considering a standard 2,000-calorie diet, this would translate to 1,100 calories primarily from carbohydrates. Since carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram, this equates to 275 grams of carbohydrates per day. For an average meal, assuming three meals per day without snacks, this would be approximately 90 grams per meal. However, it is important to focus on consuming complex carbohydrates and limit the intake of simple sugars as recommended by health guidelines.
A slice of whole-grain bread, which is a good source of complex carbohydrates, contains about 15 grams of carbohydrates. Considering the nutritional balance and typical portion sizes, this might suggest that option (b) 50 grams is a reasonable approximation for the recommended portion size of carbohydrate-dense foods per meal for women. This aligns with the guidance of having balanced, moderately portioned meals while maintaining enough room within the diet for other essential nutrients.