Open the App

Subjects

Biology

13 Dec 2025

106

4 pages

Understanding Macronutrients and Micronutrients: The Basics

user profile picture

Ummi @ummi_.com

Your body needs nutrients to function properly, but not all nutrients are created equal. Understanding the difference between... Show more

23/06, 16:40
MACRONUTRIENTS AND
MICRONUTRIENTS
INTRODUCTION:
Macronutrients and micronutrients are
essential components of a balanced diet,

What Are Macronutrients?

Think of macronutrients as your body's fuel tank - you need loads of them every day to keep going. These nutrients provide energy and help build and repair your body tissues.

The three main types are carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Carbohydrates are your body's preferred energy source, made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms arranged in different ways.

Quick Tip Remember "macro" means large - these are the nutrients you need in large amounts daily!

23/06, 16:40
MACRONUTRIENTS AND
MICRONUTRIENTS
INTRODUCTION:
Macronutrients and micronutrients are
essential components of a balanced diet,

Breaking Down Carbohydrates and Other Macros

Carbs come in two forms simple carbohydrates (like glucose and fructose found in fruits) give you quick energy, whilst complex carbohydrates (starches and fibres) provide sustained energy release.

Proteins are your body's building blocks, made from amino acids. They're essential for making enzymes, hormones, and repairing muscle tissue after exercise.

Fats aren't the enemy - they provide energy, keep you warm, and protect your organs. Saturated fats (solid at room temperature) come mainly from animals, whilst unsaturated fats (liquid at room temperature) are typically found in plant oils.

23/06, 16:40
MACRONUTRIENTS AND
MICRONUTRIENTS
INTRODUCTION:
Macronutrients and micronutrients are
essential components of a balanced diet,

Understanding Micronutrients

Micronutrients work like tiny helpers in your body - you only need small amounts, but they're absolutely essential for keeping everything running smoothly. They act as catalysts for metabolic processes.

Vitamins are organic compounds split into two groups. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) can be stored in your body fat for later use. Water-soluble vitamins (B vitamins and C) can't be stored, so you need them regularly.

Minerals are inorganic elements your body needs. Major minerals like calcium and potassium are needed in larger amounts, whilst trace minerals like iron and zinc are needed in tiny quantities.

Remember Micro means small - small amounts, big impact!

23/06, 16:40
MACRONUTRIENTS AND
MICRONUTRIENTS
INTRODUCTION:
Macronutrients and micronutrients are
essential components of a balanced diet,

When Things Go Wrong Deficiencies and Excesses

Getting the balance wrong can cause serious problems. Macronutrient deficiencies leave you feeling tired, weak, and struggling to grow properly, whilst too much can lead to obesity and heart disease.

Micronutrient deficiencies cause specific diseases you might recognise - iron deficiency causes anaemia, vitamin D deficiency causes rickets, and vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy.

Even micronutrient excesses can be dangerous, potentially causing toxicity that affects your organs and body systems.

Exam Tip Learn the specific deficiency diseases - they're common exam questions!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

1

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Most popular content in Biology

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Biology

106

13 Dec 2025

4 pages

Understanding Macronutrients and Micronutrients: The Basics

user profile picture

Ummi

@ummi_.com

Your body needs nutrients to function properly, but not all nutrients are created equal. Understanding the difference between macronutrients and micronutrients is crucial for maintaining good health and acing your biology exams.

23/06, 16:40
MACRONUTRIENTS AND
MICRONUTRIENTS
INTRODUCTION:
Macronutrients and micronutrients are
essential components of a balanced diet,

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

What Are Macronutrients?

Think of macronutrients as your body's fuel tank - you need loads of them every day to keep going. These nutrients provide energy and help build and repair your body tissues.

The three main types are carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Carbohydrates are your body's preferred energy source, made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms arranged in different ways.

Quick Tip: Remember "macro" means large - these are the nutrients you need in large amounts daily!

23/06, 16:40
MACRONUTRIENTS AND
MICRONUTRIENTS
INTRODUCTION:
Macronutrients and micronutrients are
essential components of a balanced diet,

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Breaking Down Carbohydrates and Other Macros

Carbs come in two forms: simple carbohydrates (like glucose and fructose found in fruits) give you quick energy, whilst complex carbohydrates (starches and fibres) provide sustained energy release.

Proteins are your body's building blocks, made from amino acids. They're essential for making enzymes, hormones, and repairing muscle tissue after exercise.

Fats aren't the enemy - they provide energy, keep you warm, and protect your organs. Saturated fats (solid at room temperature) come mainly from animals, whilst unsaturated fats (liquid at room temperature) are typically found in plant oils.

23/06, 16:40
MACRONUTRIENTS AND
MICRONUTRIENTS
INTRODUCTION:
Macronutrients and micronutrients are
essential components of a balanced diet,

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Understanding Micronutrients

Micronutrients work like tiny helpers in your body - you only need small amounts, but they're absolutely essential for keeping everything running smoothly. They act as catalysts for metabolic processes.

Vitamins are organic compounds split into two groups. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) can be stored in your body fat for later use. Water-soluble vitamins (B vitamins and C) can't be stored, so you need them regularly.

Minerals are inorganic elements your body needs. Major minerals like calcium and potassium are needed in larger amounts, whilst trace minerals like iron and zinc are needed in tiny quantities.

Remember: Micro means small - small amounts, big impact!

23/06, 16:40
MACRONUTRIENTS AND
MICRONUTRIENTS
INTRODUCTION:
Macronutrients and micronutrients are
essential components of a balanced diet,

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

When Things Go Wrong: Deficiencies and Excesses

Getting the balance wrong can cause serious problems. Macronutrient deficiencies leave you feeling tired, weak, and struggling to grow properly, whilst too much can lead to obesity and heart disease.

Micronutrient deficiencies cause specific diseases you might recognise - iron deficiency causes anaemia, vitamin D deficiency causes rickets, and vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy.

Even micronutrient excesses can be dangerous, potentially causing toxicity that affects your organs and body systems.

Exam Tip: Learn the specific deficiency diseases - they're common exam questions!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

1

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Most popular content in Biology

Most popular content

English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user