Problem 5

Question

All of the following are essential nutrients in humans except: a. vitamin B. b. calcium. c. glycogen. d. linoleic acid. e. vitamin \(\mathrm{K}\).

Step-by-Step Solution

Verified
Answer
The nutrient that is not essential in humans because it can be synthesized by the body is glycogen.
1Step 1: Identify essential nutrients
The essential nutrients for human bodies include: amino acids, certain fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. These cannot be synthesized by our bodies and therefore need to be supplemented through our diet.
2Step 2: Analyze each option in the exercise
a. Vitamin B: There are many B vitamins, all of which are essential and must be obtained from the diet. \nb. Calcium: This is a mineral and cannot be synthesized by the body. Hence, it's essential.\nc. Glycogen: Glycogen is a stored form of glucose produced by the body. It is not an essential nutrient, because it can be synthesized by our bodies.\nd. Linoleic acid: This is an essential fatty acid that the body cannot synthesize.\ne. Vitamin K: This is an essential nutrient that must come from the diet.
3Step 3: Choose the correct option
From our analysis, the nutrient that is not essential, because it can be synthesized by our bodies is glycogen.