Which class of nutrients provides the primary source of energy for the body?

Which class of nutrients provides the primary source of energy for the body?

• A. Lipids
• B. Vitamins
• C. Carbohydrates
• D. Proteins

Answer: (C)

Carbohydrates provide the primary source of energy because they are quickly converted to glucose, the main fuel for most body cells, including the brain and working muscles. Glucose can be used immediately for energy or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles for rapid release when needed. While fats offer more energy per gram, they take longer to mobilize and are typically used for longer, slower energy needs. Proteins mainly serve as building blocks for tissues and enzymes and are used for energy only when carbohydrate and fat stores are insufficient. Vitamins don’t provide energy themselves; they help enzymes in energy production.

Carbohydrates provide the primary source of energy because they are quickly converted to glucose, the main fuel for most body cells, including the brain and working muscles. Glucose can be used immediately for energy or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles for rapid release when needed. While fats offer more energy per gram, they take longer to mobilize and are typically used for longer, slower energy needs. Proteins mainly serve as building blocks for tissues and enzymes and are used for energy only when carbohydrate and fat stores are insufficient. Vitamins don’t provide energy themselves; they help enzymes in energy production.