Georgia Virtual School (GAVS) Health Exam

Which type of foods are typically considered energy-providing?

1. Sugars and fiber

2. Vitamins and minerals

3. Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats

4. Fats and fiber

The correct answer is: Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats

The correct answer identifies carbohydrates, proteins, and fats as the primary macronutrients that provide energy to the body. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are broken down into glucose, which is then used by cells for fuel. They are found in foods like bread, pasta, fruits, and vegetables. Proteins, while primarily responsible for building and repairing tissues, can also serve as an energy source when carbohydrates are not available. Sources of protein include meat, beans, and dairy products. Fats provide the most concentrated form of energy among macronutrients and are essential for absorbing certain vitamins, supporting cell membranes, and providing insulation. Foods that are high in fats include oils, nuts, and fatty fish. In contrast, the other options either include nutrients that do not provide energy, such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, or combinations of nutrients that do not represent the primary energy sources effectively. Fiber, while important for digestive health, does not contribute energy in the way that carbohydrates, proteins, and fats do. Vitamins and minerals are crucial for a variety of bodily functions, but they do not provide caloric energy themselves. Therefore, understanding these distinctions clarifies why carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are categorized as the main energy