What is the primary source of energy for the body?

Prepare for the Jean Inman RD Domain 1 Exam with engaging flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to boost understanding. Excel in your exam!

The primary source of energy for the body is carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's preferred source of energy due to their efficient conversion into glucose, which is then utilized by the cells for immediate energy. Glucose is particularly important for the functions of the brain and central nervous system, which rely heavily on carbohydrate metabolism for energy.

In contrast, while fats can also serve as a significant source of energy, they are metabolized more slowly than carbohydrates. Proteins, on the other hand, primarily serve as building blocks for body tissues rather than a primary energy source, although they can be utilized for energy in certain situations, such as during prolonged fasting or intense exercise. Vitamins are essential for various biochemical processes in the body but do not provide energy themselves. Therefore, the role of carbohydrates as a quick and easily accessible energy source is why they are identified as the primary energy source for the body.

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