Final answer:
Desserts are not a dedicated food category in the MyPlate guidelines, which focus on nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins, and dairy for a balanced diet. For weight loss, consuming more vegetables is typically the most effective due to their low calorie and high nutritional value.
Step-by-step explanation:
The option that is not a dedicated food category contained in MyPlate is d. Desserts. MyPlate categorizes food into six groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, dairy, and oils. Desserts, while they may be part of some people's diets, are not recognized as a separate food group within the MyPlate guidelines. Instead, the focus is on whole and nutrient-dense foods that contribute to a balanced diet. For those looking for weight loss, vegetables (option b) are generally the most helpful choice due to their low calorie content and high nutritional value. Consuming more vegetables can help create a calorie deficit, which is needed to lose weight, while also providing essential vitamins and minerals.