What is the term used for components in food that meet the body's requirements for energy and growth?

The term "nutrients" is used to describe the components in food that fulfill the body's requirements for energy and growth. Nutrients encompass a variety of substances that the body needs to function properly, including macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which provide energy; as well as micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals, which are essential for various physiological processes.

While calories refer to the energy provided by foods, they do not encompass the broader definition of nutrients, which includes vitamins and minerals. Vitamins are organic compounds that are crucial for metabolic processes but do not provide energy directly. Similarly, minerals are inorganic elements that support various bodily functions but are not a source of energy either. Therefore, the comprehensive definition of nutrients includes all substances that contribute to overall health, encompassing both energy-providing macronutrients and essential micronutrients.