Major nutrients and their functions and sources
The table below lists the major nutrients (macronutrients), their functions, and their sources in food.
Nutrients in foods Nutrient Function Sources Protein Provides energy; builds and repairs body cells; part of various enzymes, hormones, and antibodies Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, milk and milk products, vegetables, grains Carbohydrate Provides energy needed by the brain, nervous system, and red blood cells for energy Breads, cereal grains, pasta, rice, fruit, vegetables, milk, sugar Fat Provides energy; carries other fat-soluble nutrients (vitamins); part of cell membranes, membranes around nerves, hormones, bile (for fat digestion) Meat, poultry, fish, milk and milk products, nuts and seeds, oils, butter, margarine, salad dressing, some candy, some desserts
| Author: | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS Cynthia Tank | Last Updated: March 6, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Diabetes Educator | |
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