What condition is characterized by adequate food intake but inadequate nutrient absorption?

The correct answer is secondary deficiency disease, which occurs when there is sufficient intake of calories or food, but the body is unable to absorb or utilize the nutrients effectively. This can be due to various factors, such as gastrointestinal disorders, infections, or certain medications that interfere with nutrient absorption.

In contrast, primary deficiency disease results from insufficient intake of essential nutrients, where the body does not receive enough of a vitamin or mineral from the diet. Nutritional imbalance refers to a disproportionate intake of certain nutrients or inadequate variety in diet rather than absorption issues specifically.

Recognizing the distinction between these conditions is crucial for understanding the underlying causes of nutrient deficiencies and informing appropriate interventions for improving health outcomes in individuals with absorption issues.