# The Function of Nutrients

*Archive · Nutrition.* An archived page from the former Health Check nutrition program site. Kept because other sites still link here. Not part of HealthCheck.org's imaging services.

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<td colspan="2"><strong>The Function of Nutrients</strong></td>
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<td>Carbohydrate</td>
<td>supplies energy<br>assists in the utilization of fats</td>
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<td>Protein</td>
<td>helps build and repair body tissues<br>helps build antibodies</td>
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<td>Fat</td>
<td>supplies energy<br>aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, A,D, K, E</td>
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<td>Vitamin A</td>
<td>aids in normal bone and tooth development<br>aids in the development and maintenance of night vision<br>aids in maintaining the health of the skin and membranes</td>
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<td>Vitamin D</td>
<td>a factor in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth<br>enhances calcium and phosphorus absorption and utilization</td>
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<td>Vitamin E</td>
<td>protects the fat in body tissues from oxidation</td>
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<td>Vitamin C</td>
<td>a factor in the development and maintenance of bones, cartilage, teeth and gums</td>
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<td>Vitamin B1<br>(Thiamine)</td>
<td>releases energy from carbohydrate<br>aids normal growth</td>
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<td>Vitamin B2<br>(Riboflavin)</td>
<td>factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation</td>
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<td>Niacin</td>
<td>aids in normal growth and development<br>factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation</td>
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<td>Vitamin B6</td>
<td>factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation</td>
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<td>Folate</td>
<td>aids in red blood cell formation<br>may play a role in the prevention of neural tube disorders</td>
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<td>Vitamin B12</td>
<td>aids in red blood cell formation</td>
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<td>Calcium</td>
<td>aids in the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth</td>
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<td>Magnesium</td>
<td>factor in energy metabolism, tissue formation and bone development</td>
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<td>Iron</td>
<td>factor in red blood cell formation</td>
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<td>Zinc</td>
<td>factor in energy metabolism and tissue formation</td>
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<td>Sodium</td>
<td>required for normal cell function and regulation of blood volume</td>
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<td>Potassium</td>
<td>required for normal cell function<br>needed for proper nerve, muscle and blood cell function</td>
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<td>Fibre</td>
<td>soluble fibre plays a role in lowering blood cholesterol and controlling blood sugars<br>insoluble fibre promotes satiety (a feeling of fullness), which may help with weight management; it also promotes regularity important for normal bowel function</td>
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Adapted from: Health Canada (<http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/labeti/guide/ch8e.shtml#a8_5>) and Institute of Medicine of the Nation Academies. Dietary Reference Intakes. The Essential Guide to Nutrient Requirements. The National Academies
Press. Washington: 2006.

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