Micronutrients include which of the following?

Micronutrients are essential nutrients that the body requires in small amounts to function properly. They primarily include vitamins and minerals, which play crucial roles in various bodily functions such as supporting the immune system, promoting healthy growth and development, and facilitating biochemical reactions.

Vitamins are organic compounds that help regulate metabolism, promote healthy skin, and support the nervous system, among other functions. Minerals, on the other hand, are inorganic elements that contribute to bone health, fluid balance, and muscle function. Since both vitamins and minerals are vital for maintaining various physiological processes, they are classified as micronutrients in nutritional science.

The other options involve macronutrients or elements not classified as micronutrients. Carbohydrates and fats are macronutrients, providing energy and supporting bodily functions. Proteins, which are also macronutrients, are essential for building and repairing tissues. Water is vital for life but does not fall under the category of micronutrients. Energy typically refers to the caloric content provided by macronutrients, not a nutrient itself. Therefore, the correct identification of micronutrients as vitamins and minerals makes option C the accurate choice.