**Nutrients: Essential Components for the Body**

**Introduction:**
Nutrients are essential components found in various foods that are required by the body for its growth, development, and overall functioning. They provide the energy and building blocks necessary for maintaining good health. Without proper nutrient intake, the body may experience deficiencies or imbalances, leading to various health problems.

**Types of Nutrients:**
There are six main types of nutrients that the body needs in varying quantities:

1. Carbohydrates: These are the body's primary source of energy and are found in foods such as bread, rice, pasta, and fruits.

2. Proteins: Proteins are important for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. Sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts.

3. Fats: Fats are a concentrated source of energy and help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. They are found in foods like oils, butter, nuts, and fatty fish.

4. Vitamins: Vitamins are essential for various bodily functions and are required in small amounts. They can be obtained from fruits, vegetables, and fortified foods.

5. Minerals: Minerals are necessary for the proper functioning of the body's cells and help in maintaining a healthy immune system, strong bones, and teeth. They are found in foods such as meat, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables.

6. Water: Water is a vital nutrient that is required for numerous bodily functions, including digestion, absorption, circulation, and temperature regulation. It can be obtained from drinking fluids and consuming water-rich foods.

**Importance of Nutrients:**
Each nutrient plays a specific role in maintaining good health:

- Carbohydrates provide energy for the body's daily activities and are particularly important for brain function.
- Proteins are the building blocks of body tissues, including muscles, bones, and organs.
- Fats are essential for insulating the body, protecting organs, and providing a concentrated source of energy.
- Vitamins and minerals support various bodily functions, including metabolism, immune function, and cell growth.
- Water is involved in digestion, nutrient absorption, waste elimination, and temperature regulation.

**Conclusion:**
Nutrients are vital for the body's growth, development, and overall functioning. Consuming a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods is essential to ensure optimal health. By understanding the importance of nutrients and making informed food choices, individuals can maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent nutrient deficiencies or imbalances.

The answer is (B)- Nutrients, because the ingredients which we use to make a specific dish contain one or more than one components in them, these components are known as Nutrients.
Ex: Proteins, Carbohydrates, Vitamin etc