Nutrients

A nutrient is a compound that is needed for normal function of the body.

There are six groups of nutrients:

• carbohydrates
• proteins
• lipids
• water
• vitamins - compounds essential for normal physiologic processes in the body
• minerals - elements essential for normal physiologic processes in the body

Other compounds (for example alcohol) are not nutrients.

Nutrient classification

By needed amount:

• Macronutrients (nutrients needed in larger amounts): carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, water
• Micronutrients (nutrients needed in smaller amounts): vitamins, minerals

By energy:

• Containing energy: carbohydrates (4 calories/gram), proteins (4 calories/gram), lipids (9 calories/gram)
• Containing no energy: water, vitamins, minerals