What term refers to the properties found in food and drink that nourish the body for growth and maintenance of life?

The term that refers to the properties found in food and drink that nourish the body for growth and maintenance of life is "nutrients." Nutrients are substances that the body needs to function properly, and they play crucial roles in various physiological processes. They are essential for energy production, the building and repair of tissues, regulation of bodily functions, and overall health.

Macronutrients, while also important, refer specifically to the larger categories of nutrients—proteins, carbohydrates, and fats—that provide energy and support bodily functions, but do not encompass all forms of nourishment. Vitamins are a subset of nutrients that are crucial for specific functions but do not represent the complete array of nourishing properties in food. Supplements are products that may aid in meeting nutritional needs but are not themselves the primary sources of nourishment found in whole foods. Thus, "nutrients" is the most comprehensive and accurate term to describe the substances in food and drink that sustain the body's growth and maintenance.