The major macronutrients are protein, carbohydrate, fat, and water. Micronutrients Nutrients that the body needs in small amounts. Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients. Metabolism A general term for the complex biochemical processes by which the body generates energy from food, manufactures substances that it needs, and breaks down substances in food into simpler components. Minerals Inorganic substances such as iron and calcium.
Many minerals are essential nutrients.
Neural tube defects A group of birth defects caused by failure of the neural tube to close properly during the early weeks of gestation. Consumption of adequate amounts of folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy reduces the risk of neural tube defects. Niacin One of the B vitamins. One of the chemical forms of niacin. An addictive substance found in tobacco.