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Major Nutrients in Food

Table of Contents


Overview

Nutrients are substances in food that provide energy or that help your body work as it should. Nutrients are used to build and repair body tissues.

The major nutrients are protein, carbohydrate, and fat. They provide the body with energy. This energy keeps your heart beating, your brain active, and your muscles working. The energy is measured in calories.

Vitamins, minerals, and water are nutrients too. To work well, your body also needs these nutrients.


Credits for Major Nutrients in Food

Current as of: September 20, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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