Substances in food that provide energy and materials for growth.

• A. Vitamins
• B. Nutrients
• C. Minerals
• D. Fiber

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is what substances in food are called that supply both energy and the building blocks the body needs for growth. These substances are nutrients. They include macronutrients like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins that provide energy and also supply the components the body uses to grow and repair tissues (for example, proteins supply amino acids for tissue-building). Vitamins and minerals are also nutrients, but they mainly support metabolism and enzyme function rather than supplying energy directly. Fiber, while important for digestion, is not digested for energy in humans. So nutrients is the best answer because it encompasses all the substances in food that provide energy and materials for growth.