What do macronutrients provide in a diet?

• A. Nutrients that provide energy
• B. Vitamins and minerals only
• C. Water and electrolytes
• D. Nutrients that store genetic information

Answer: (A)

Macronutrients are the nutrients the body needs in larger amounts to supply energy and support growth and daily function. The main point is that they provide calories: carbohydrates and fats are the primary energy sources, while protein can contribute energy if carbohydrate stores are low, though its main role is building and repairing tissues. Energy from macronutrients is measured in calories, with about 4 kcal per gram for carbohydrates and protein and about 9 kcal per gram for fats. This is why macronutrients are described as energy-yielding. In contrast, vitamins and minerals (micronutrients) are needed in smaller amounts and do not provide calories; water and electrolytes are essential for hydration and physiological processes but also do not supply energy. Storing genetic information is not a nutrient function.