Major nutrients and their functions and sources
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Major nutrients and their functions and sources
The table below lists the major nutrients (macronutrients), their functions, and their sources in food.
| Nutrient | Function | Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | Provides energy; builds and repairs body cells; part of various enzymes, hormones, and antibodies | Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, milk and milk products, vegetables, grains |
| Carbohydrate | Provides energy needed by the brain, nervous system, and red blood cells for energy | Breads, cereal grains, pasta, rice, fruit, vegetables, milk, sugar |
| Fat | Provides energy; carries other fat-soluble nutrients (vitamins); part of cell membranes, membranes around nerves, hormones, bile (for fat digestion) | Meat, poultry, fish, milk and milk products, nuts and seeds, oils, butter, margarine, salad dressing, candy |
Credits
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | March 6, 2008 |
| Last updated: | March 06, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Reviewed By: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
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