What class of chemical compounds do people consume in large amounts known as?

Macronutrients are the class of chemical compounds that people consume in large amounts, and they are fundamental for energy production and overall bodily function. This category includes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, each serving vital roles in the body’s metabolic processes. Carbohydrates provide energy, proteins are essential for growth and repair of tissues, and fats are crucial for energy storage and cellular function.

In contrast, micronutrients, which encompass vitamins and minerals, are required in much smaller quantities but are still important for various biological functions. Vitamins assist in numerous biochemical reactions, while minerals are vital for structural and functional roles in the body. However, they do not fit the definition of macronutrients which are consumed in significantly larger amounts to meet energy and physiological needs.