Major Nutrients in Food
Overview
Nutrients are substances in food that provide energy or that help your body work as it should. Nutrients are used to build and repair body tissues.
The major nutrients are protein, carbohydrate, and fat. They provide the body with energy. This energy keeps your heart beating, your brain active, and your muscles working. The energy is measured in calories.
- Protein has 4 calories per gram.
- Carbohydrate has 4 calories per gram.
- Fat has 9 calories per gram.
Vitamins, minerals, and water are nutrients too. To work well, your body also needs these nutrients.
Current as of: October 6, 2025
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
