1.13. Types of Nutrients http://www.ck12.org
1.13 Types of Nutrients
- Identify the roles of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids.
What nutrients are in this meal?
There are many different nutrients that are present in this meal. For example, the steak is a source of protein. The
french fries are a source of carbohydrates. Both these nutrients help supply the body with energy.
Nutrients
Carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids contain energy. When your body digests food, it breaks down the molecules of
these nutrients. This releases the energy so your body can use it.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydratesare nutrients that include sugars, starches, and fiber. There are two types of carbohydrates: simple
and complex. Pictured below are some foods that are good sources of carbohydrates (Figure1.24).
Simple Carbohydrates
Sugars are small, simple carbohydrates that are found in foods such as fruits and milk. The sugar found in fruits
is called fructose. The sugar found in milk is called lactose. These sugars are broken down by the body to form
glucose (C 6 H 12 O 6 ), the simplest sugar of all. Through the process ofcellular respiration, glucose is converted by
cells into energy.