Which statement best defines macronutrients?

• A. Macronutrients include glycogen, amino acids, fats, and other major energy sources
• B. Micronutrients include vitamins and minerals
• C. Vitamins are macronutrients
• D. Minerals are macronutrients

Answer: (A)

Macronutrients are the nutrients the body needs in larger amounts to provide energy and to support growth and tissue function. This includes carbohydrates (glycogen is the storage form of glucose), proteins (made of amino acids), and fats. The statement listing glycogen, amino acids, fats, and other major energy sources aligns with this idea, because these are the energy-providing and structural nutrients required in larger amounts. In contrast, micronutrients are vitamins and minerals needed in much smaller amounts, so they aren’t macronutrients.