What is a "micronutrient"?

A "micronutrient" refers to nutrients that are essential for the body, but needed in relatively small amounts compared to macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. This category primarily includes vitamins and minerals, which play critical roles in a wide range of physiological functions, including immune response, energy production, and bone health.

Vitamins are organic compounds that support various body processes, while minerals are inorganic elements important for processes such as fluid balance and the formation of bones and teeth. The emphasis is on the quantity required, as even though they are needed in smaller amounts, deficiencies in these micronutrients can lead to significant health issues, highlighting their importance in a balanced diet.

The other options involve misconceptions: high-energy nutrients are primarily macronutrients, proteins serve a distinct structural and functional role different from micronutrients, and minerals cannot be synthesized by the body. Hence, understanding the definition and importance of micronutrients is crucial for recognizing how they contribute to overall health and nutrition.