Nutrients Nutrients are substances in food that supply the body with energy and raw materials needed for growth, repair, and mainteNnce. The nutrients that the body needs are water, carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
- Many of the body's processes take place in water. Water makes up a large part of blood and other body fluids.
- Simple and complex carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy. Complex carbohydrates, such as starches, must be broken down into simple sugars to be used for energy.
- Fats are formed from fatty acids and glycerol. Fats help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins and are a part of cell membranes, nerve cells, and certain hormones.
- Proteins supply raw materials for growth and repair of structures such as skin and muscle. Many enzymes and hormones are proteins.
- Vitamins are organic molecules that the body needs in very small amounts. They are needed to help the body perform chemical reactions.
- Minerals are inorganic nutrients the body needs in small amounts. Examples of minerals include calcium and iron.
17. What are three ways the body loses water?