The six essential nutrients are carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. The body needs all six from food and drink to supply energy, build and repair tissue, and keep its processes running.
Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are the energy-providing nutrients: carbohydrates and protein supply about 4 calories per gram, while fat supplies about 9. Vitamins and minerals provide no calories but are needed in small amounts to regulate body processes, and protein, vitamins, minerals, and water all help build and maintain bones and tissues. According to New Mexico State University Extension, water makes up about 50% of a woman’s body weight and about 60% of a man’s, and it is needed to regulate body temperature, digest food, carry nutrients to cells, and remove wastes.
Source: New Mexico State University Extension, Nutrition Facts for Better Meals (Guide E-113)
Image: Good Food Display, National Cancer Institute, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.