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What is a limiting amino acid?

  1. An amino acid that can synthesize non-essential amino acids

  2. An amino acid found in sufficient amounts in food

  3. An essential amino acid present in food in insufficient amounts for growth or maintenance

  4. An amino acid that can be synthesized by the body

The correct answer is: An essential amino acid present in food in insufficient amounts for growth or maintenance

A limiting amino acid is an essential amino acid that is found in food in insufficient amounts. This means that the body is unable to produce enough of this amino acid on its own and must obtain it from food sources. Options A and D are incorrect because they refer to non-essential amino acids, which the body can produce on its own. Option B may seem like a reasonable answer, but it is not specific enough as it does not mention the essentiality of the amino acid. Thus, option C is the best answer as it accurately describes what a limiting amino acid is.