What are macronutrients and why are they called macronutrients?

Macronutrients are the essential nutrients that your body needs in relatively large amounts to function properly. They include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. These nutrients provide the energy (in the form of calories) necessary for various bodily functions, such as metabolism, movement, and cell repair.

The term "macronutrients" comes from the prefix "macro," meaning large, and "nutrients," referring to the essential substances needed for growth, metabolism, and other physiological functions. They are called macronutrients because they are required by the body in larger quantities compared to micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, which are needed in smaller amounts