Overview

Nutrients

Nutrients are substances required for human growth, maintenance, and activity. They are classified into energy-producing nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats), micronutrients (vitamins, minerals), dietary fiber, and others. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's 'Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese' establishes intake standards for each nutrient, and balanced dietary intake is fundamental to maintaining health.

nutrients health diet vitamins minerals macronutrients dietary fiber ministry of health
code slug name description category energyPerGram types
01 carbohydrates Carbohydrates The primary energy source for the body. Energy-producing nutrients 4
02 protein Protein Nutrients that serve as body components and regulatory functions. Energy-producing nutrients 4
03 fats Fats High-energy nutrients that form cell membrane components. Energy-producing nutrients 9
04 vitamins Vitamins Micronutrient organic compounds necessary for maintaining normal physiological functions. Micronutrients 13
05 minerals Minerals Inorganic substances necessary for bone and tooth formation and fluid regulation. Micronutrients 16
06 dietary-fiber Dietary Fiber A type of carbohydrate called the 'sixth nutrient'. Other nutrients 0
07 water Water An essential nutrient for temperature regulation and metabolism. Other nutrients 0

Classification and types of nutrients required by the human body.