Final answer:
The primary source of fuel for the human body is carbohydrates, specifically glucose, which is crucial for generating the energy that cells require for functioning. The correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Primary Source of Fuel for the Human Body
The primary source of fuel for the human body, particularly for neurological functioning and physical exercise, is c) Carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the main components of food that are broken down into glucose.
This glucose is then used to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of the cell needed for proper cellular function. While proteins and fats also provide energy, carbohydrates are the preferred source, especially for immediate energy needs.
Proteins are also essential for the body, serving as building blocks for body tissue and as a secondary fuel source. However, they are primarily important for their role in growth and repair due to their amino acid composition.
On the other hand, fats are more energy-dense, providing approximately 9 kcal per gram, and serve as a long-term energy storage, crucial for building cell membranes and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K.
Excessive consumption of these macronutrients, especially carbohydrates and fat, can lead to their storage as glycogen in the liver and muscle cells, or as adipose tissue, which can result in obesity and related health problems if not managed properly. The correct option is c.