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
Author	Cynthia Tank
Editor	Katy E. Magee, MA
Associate Editor	Michele Cronen
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Diabetes Educator
Last Updated	March 6, 2008