What is the major source of energy for the body?

Carbohydrates serve as the primary energy source for the body because they are easily converted into glucose, which is the preferred fuel for many cells, especially those in the brain and muscles during exercise. When carbohydrates are consumed, they undergo digestion and are transformed into simpler sugars like glucose. This glucose then enters the bloodstream, providing an immediate source of energy for cellular processes.

Additionally, carbohydrates facilitate the metabolism of fats and proteins, playing a crucial role in energy production. While fats and proteins can also provide energy, their conversion into usable forms is more complex and less efficient for immediate energy needs. Fats, while high in calories, are typically used in prolonged energy states. Proteins primarily serve as building blocks for tissues and are not routinely utilized for energy unless necessary.

Vitamins are essential nutrients that support various metabolic processes, but they do not provide energy directly. They act mainly as coenzymes or helpers in metabolic pathways, making them vital for energy production but not energy sources themselves. This distinction highlights why carbohydrates are recognized as the major source of energy for the body.