Which nutrient provides the most energy

Fats: Fats are the slowest source of energy but the most energy-efficient form of food. Fat molecules consist of primarily carbon and hydrogen atoms and some of them essential for diet. Fats provide a source of concentrated energy as well as the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. It is needed for hormone metabolism, healthy skin and hair, tissue repair, protecting the internal organs and to prevent excessive loss of body heat.

Carbohydrate: A carbohydrate is an organic compound that consists only of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, usually with a hydrogen: Oxygen: atom ratio The body uses carbohydrates to make glucose which is the fuel that gives energy and helps keep everything going. The body can use immediately or store it in the liver and muscles for when it is needed.

Glucose is a carbohydrate which is the major fuel for the cells in the body. Proteins: Proteins, building blocks of life, are compounds of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and nitrogen.

Majority of proteins contain sulphur. It is made up of numerous monomers, the amino acids, which are joined together by peptide bonds. It is a major part of skin, muscles, organs, and glands and also found in all body fluids, except bile and urine. Fibres: Fibre is the indigestible parts of plant foods, such as vegetables, fruits, grains, beans and legumes.

It is a type of carbohydrate that helps keep our digestive systems healthy. Get Started for Free Download App. More Cell Questions Q1. Lipids are a concentrated source of energy and provide almost twice the amount of energy than that supplied by proteins and carbohydrates. The approximate number of kilojoules a child consumes per day will depend on their age and physical activity level.

The values given are for average physical activity only. Comments will be used to improve web content and will not be responded to. Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback. It will be used to make improvements to this website. Table of contents Introduction Material Background Role of the School Canteen in contributing to a health promoting school Group discussion: What is a healthy school canteen?

By Lindsay Boyers. Lindsay Boyers. Lindsay Boyers is a holistic nutritionist with a Bachelor's degree in food and nutrition and a certificate in holistic nutrition consulting.

She has a background in functional nutrition and is currently studying for her RD exam. In addition to contributing to Livestrong.