What are macro-nutrients?

Macro-nutrients refer to the substances that are required by the body in larger amounts to provide energy and support vital functions. These include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, each playing distinct roles in energy production, growth, and maintenance of the body's systems.

Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy, especially for high-intensity activities, while proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues, and fats serve as a concentrated energy source and are vital for absorbing certain vitamins. This focus on the requirement of large quantities for energy makes the answer relevant and accurate in the context of nutrition.

The other choices emphasize different categories of nutrients: the first mentions vitamins, which are indeed essential but required in smaller quantities; the third option discusses water and minerals, which are crucial for hydration and various bodily functions but do not provide energy; the last option refers to antioxidants, which serve specific health roles and are not classified as macro-nutrients. Each of these does not align with the definition of macro-nutrients that are primarily focused on energy provision and large intake needs.