Which of the following nutrients provides energy to the body?

Appeared in: AIIMS Patna NO - 2020

Explanation

Fats, also known as lipids, are classified as macronutrients, which are nutrients the body needs in large amounts.
Along with carbohydrates and proteins, fats are one of the three nutrients that provide energy to the body.
Fats are the most energy-dense nutrient, supplying 9 kilocalories (kcal) of energy per gram.
This energy is used for metabolic processes, physical activity, and is stored for future use.

Option B: Zinc is a micronutrient, specifically a trace mineral. While it is essential for many enzymatic reactions and immune function, it does not provide the body with calories or energy.
Option C: Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, which is a type of micronutrient. It is vital for vision, immune function, and cell growth but does not serve as an energy source.
Option D: Vitamin D is also a fat-soluble vitamin (micronutrient). Its primary role is to facilitate calcium absorption for bone health. It does not provide energy.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Macronutrients vs. Micronutrients as Energy Sources as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses use this fundamental knowledge for patient education on diet and nutrition, explaining why a balanced intake of macronutrients is necessary for energy and recovery.
This concept is critical when managing the nutritional plans for patients with specific needs, such as those who are malnourished, obese, or have metabolic disorders like diabetes.
Understanding energy sources is vital in critical care for formulating total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or enteral feeds to ensure patients receive adequate calories for healing.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question, which is 'provides energy'.
Recall the basic classification of nutrients into two groups: macronutrients and micronutrients.
Remember that macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, proteins) are the ones that supply energy (calories), while micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) do not.
Scan the options to identify which one is a macronutrient.
Fat is a macronutrient. Zinc is a mineral, and Vitamins A and D are vitamins. Therefore, fat is the only energy-providing nutrient in the list.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 487-489

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 5 p. 180-182

E6 Nutrition Monika Sharma 3e p. 51-53

Practise the full AIIMS Patna NO - 2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.