Which nutrients are important for building muscle and blood tissues, and for cell repair and replacement?

Which nutrients are important for building muscle and blood tissues, and for cell repair and replacement?

• A. Proteins
• B. Carbohydrates
• C. Fats
• D. Water

Answer: (A)

Proteins provide the amino acids that are the building blocks for new tissue. When you build muscle, your muscle fibers are repaired and thickened through protein synthesis, which relies on adequate dietary protein. Blood tissues and components—such as enzymes, antibodies, plasma proteins, and the protein portion of hemoglobin—are also made from proteins and constantly turnover as cells are repaired or replaced. For cell repair and replacement, the body needs a steady supply of amino acids to synthesize new proteins and maintain tissues. In contrast, carbohydrates mainly supply energy to fuel work and metabolic processes, fats provide a dense energy source and essential fatty acids, and water supports hydration and transport but does not supply the structural building blocks for tissues. Therefore, proteins are the key nutrient for building muscle, supporting blood tissue, and enabling cell repair and replacement.

Proteins provide the amino acids that are the building blocks for new tissue. When you build muscle, your muscle fibers are repaired and thickened through protein synthesis, which relies on adequate dietary protein. Blood tissues and components—such as enzymes, antibodies, plasma proteins, and the protein portion of hemoglobin—are also made from proteins and constantly turnover as cells are repaired or replaced. For cell repair and replacement, the body needs a steady supply of amino acids to synthesize new proteins and maintain tissues. In contrast, carbohydrates mainly supply energy to fuel work and metabolic processes, fats provide a dense energy source and essential fatty acids, and water supports hydration and transport but does not supply the structural building blocks for tissues. Therefore, proteins are the key nutrient for building muscle, supporting blood tissue, and enabling cell repair and replacement.