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Major Nutrients in Food

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.

  • Protein has 4 calories per gram.
  • Carbohydrate has 4 calories per gram.
  • Fat has 9 calories per gram.

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

Credits

Current as of: September 20, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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