Official Explanation

Argument Construction

This question requires us to identify an explanation for nutritionists' lack of concern regarding consumption of beets and carrots, despite the fact that they have higher sugar levels than many other vegetables and rate high on the glycemic index.

Normally, nutritionists would advise people against consuming foods that rate high on the glycemic index, whatever their other nutritional benefits.

To explain why nutritionists might hold such apparently conflicting positions, consider whether there might be something notable about the consumption of beets and carrots that makes their consumption an exception to the rule.

A. The fact that some foods may be even more problematic than beets and carrots does not explain nutritionists' lack of concern about beets and carrots.

B. Correct. This provides a reason that consumption of beets and carrots may be, at least within the suggested context, exempt from nutritionists' concern about consumption of high-sugar, high-glycemic-index foods. Remember, nutritionists' general concern arises from the effects such foods have on those who consume them. If we suggest that beets and carrots are usually consumed with high-protein foods that counteract these unwanted effects, we have good reason not to be concerned about their consumption, at least in regard to their sugar level and glycemic index.

C. The nutritionists advise people to avoid foods high in sugar and high on the glycemic index despite any nutritional benefits they may confer. Therefore, the fact that beets and carrots have such nutritional benefits does not explain why nutritionists would not be concerned about consuming beets and carrots, given that they both high in sugar and rate high on the glycemic index.

D. Whatever measure the glycemic index is based on, we know that beets and carrots are high on that index. Furthermore, we know that nutritionists usually advise people to avoid high-sugar and high-glycemic-index foods, despite any nutritional benefits they may confer. Therefore, the fact that beets and carrots are more nutritious than white bread does not in any way explain the nutritionists' lack of concern.

E. The fact that nutritionists have only recently become concerned about high-sugar and high-glycemic-level foods does not explain their particular lack of concern regarding beets and carrots.

The correct answer is B.