Which nutrients are primarily responsible for providing energy to the body?

Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are the primary nutrients responsible for providing energy to the body. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy; they are readily broken down into glucose, which is used by cells for fuel. Fats are another significant energy source, providing more than double the energy per gram compared to carbohydrates and proteins, and they are essential for supporting cell structure and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Proteins can also be utilized for energy, particularly during extended periods of physical activity or when carbohydrate intake is insufficient. However, their primary role is to build and repair tissues.

Other options, such as sugars, vitamins, and minerals, do not serve as primary sources of energy. While sugars are a type of carbohydrate and can provide energy, vitamins and minerals are essential for various bodily functions but do not provide energy directly. Water, protein, and fiber also do not contribute directly to energy provision; fiber aids in digestion, and while proteins can provide energy, their primary purpose is structural and functional, not energy supply. Lastly, amino acids and vitamins are vital for metabolic processes, but similarly, they do not primarily serve as energy sources.