Which nutrient provides energy in the diet and accounts for about 50% of daily intake?

Which nutrient provides energy in the diet and accounts for about 50% of daily intake?

• A. Carbohydrates
• B. Proteins
• C. Fats
• D. Vitamins

Answer: (A)

Carbohydrates are the body's main energy source and typically account for about half of daily calories. They provide about 4 kcal per gram, and dietary guidelines commonly place carbohydrates in the 45–65% range of total energy, which is roughly 50% in many diets. This makes them the nutrient that both supplies energy and aligns with the idea of about half of daily intake. Fats give more energy per gram (9 kcal) but usually contribute a smaller share of total calories, while proteins are mainly for tissue repair and maintenance, and vitamins do not provide energy.

Carbohydrates are the body's main energy source and typically account for about half of daily calories. They provide about 4 kcal per gram, and dietary guidelines commonly place carbohydrates in the 45–65% range of total energy, which is roughly 50% in many diets. This makes them the nutrient that both supplies energy and aligns with the idea of about half of daily intake. Fats give more energy per gram (9 kcal) but usually contribute a smaller share of total calories, while proteins are mainly for tissue repair and maintenance, and vitamins do not provide energy.