Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What type of nutrient are carbohydrates classified as?

1. Micronutrients

2. Energy-yielding nutrients

3. Non-essential nutrients

4. Structural nutrients

The correct answer is: Energy-yielding nutrients

Carbohydrates are classified as energy-yielding nutrients because they are a primary source of energy for the body. When consumed, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which can be used immediately for energy or stored in the liver and muscles for later use. This classification is essential for understanding nutrition and diet, as carbohydrates provide fuel for physical activity, brain function, and metabolic processes. In the context of the other options, micronutrients refer to vitamins and minerals that are required in smaller amounts but do not provide energy. Non-essential nutrients are those that the body can produce on its own and thus do not need to be consumed through diet, whereas carbohydrates are considered essential for various bodily functions. Structural nutrients typically reference components that contribute to the structure of cells and tissues, which is not the primary function of carbohydrates. Thus, classifying carbohydrates as energy-yielding nutrients accurately reflects their significant role in human nutrition.