Which nutrients are described as inorganic matter in the diet?

The correct answer is minerals, which are considered inorganic nutrients essential for various bodily functions. Unlike organic nutrients such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, minerals are not derived from living organisms and do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds. They play critical roles in numerous biological processes, including nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and maintaining fluid balance.

Minerals can be divided into major minerals, required in larger amounts, and trace minerals, needed in smaller amounts, but all are crucial for a well-functioning body. For example, calcium contributes to bone health, while iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood. Understanding the role of minerals helps to appreciate their importance in a balanced diet, as they cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through food sources.