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What nutrient is a source of energy and helps your body to absorb vitamins?

User RBA
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2 Answers

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The nutrient that serves as a source of energy and aids in the absorption of vitamins is called fat.

Dietary fats are a concentrated source of energy, providing 9 calories per gram, which is more than double the calories provided by carbohydrates or proteins. Fats are broken down during digestion into fatty acids, which can be used by the body as a source of energy.

In addition to providing energy, fats also play a crucial role in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K). These vitamins require the presence of dietary fats for proper absorption in the digestive system. Fats act as carriers for these vitamins, allowing them to be absorbed and utilized by the body.

NOTE

while fats are essential for energy and vitamin absorption, it's recommended to consume them in moderation and choose healthier sources of fats, such as unsaturated fats found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil, rather than excessive amounts of saturated or trans fats. A balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients is key to maintaining overall health.

User Persimmonium
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Final answer:

Carbohydrates and lipids are the macronutrients that serve as sources of energy and aid in vitamin absorption for bodily functions. These nutrients release energy during digestion, which is then used for metabolic activities, including vitamin absorption and energy conversion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nutrient that is a source of energy and helps your body to absorb vitamins is primarily found in carbohydrates and lipids (fats). When your body digests food, it breaks down the molecules of these nutrients, releasing energy that can be used for metabolic processes, such as converting nutrients to ATP, the energy currency of the cell. Additionally, this breakdown process aids in the absorption of vitamins, which are essential micronutrients needed in small amounts for the proper functioning of the body. Vitamins facilitate numerous bodily functions, including the process of converting nutrients into energy.

It is vital to maintain a balanced diet with a variety of foods to ensure that you gather all the necessary vitamins and nutrients required for good health. Unlike macronutrients such as carbohydrates and lipids that provide energy, vitamins do not directly provide energy, but some help the body use energy from other sources effectively.

User Triynko
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