Which term refers to the group of nutrients that provide energy and insulation and support cell membranes?

Which term refers to the group of nutrients that provide energy and insulation and support cell membranes?

• A. Fats (Lipids)
• B. Proteins
• C. Carbohydrates
• D. Minerals

Answer: (A)

Fats, or lipids, are the nutrients that provide concentrated energy and also play key roles in insulation and cell membranes. They store energy efficiently (more calories per gram than carbohydrates or proteins) and form a protective layer under the skin to help maintain body temperature. In cells, fats are a major part of the membrane structure—the phospholipid bilayer—giving membranes their flexibility and helping regulate what can enter or leave the cell. While carbohydrates mainly supply quick energy, and proteins have many roles (including enzymes and structural components), fats uniquely meet the combination of energy, insulation, and membrane material. Minerals are important for bones and other functions, but they don’t provide energy or form cell membranes.

Fats, or lipids, are the nutrients that provide concentrated energy and also play key roles in insulation and cell membranes. They store energy efficiently (more calories per gram than carbohydrates or proteins) and form a protective layer under the skin to help maintain body temperature. In cells, fats are a major part of the membrane structure—the phospholipid bilayer—giving membranes their flexibility and helping regulate what can enter or leave the cell. While carbohydrates mainly supply quick energy, and proteins have many roles (including enzymes and structural components), fats uniquely meet the combination of energy, insulation, and membrane material. Minerals are important for bones and other functions, but they don’t provide energy or form cell membranes.