Various constituents of food which are necessary for growth and nourishing life are called nutrients. Carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals are the nutrients. Carbohydrates and fats provide energy to the body. Hence, they are known as energy-giving food. Proteins facilitates growth and repair and hence it is called the body-building food. Vitamins and minerals help the body in fighting diseases. So, vitamins and minerals are called protective food.
