Which term refers to elements in food that are required by the body for proper function?

The term that refers to elements in food that are required by the body for proper function is "essential nutrients." Essential nutrients encompass a broad range of substances your body needs to maintain health, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients are termed "essential" because they must be obtained through the diet, as the body either cannot produce them at all or cannot produce them in sufficient quantities to meet its needs.

While macro-nutrients, minerals, and trace elements are also important components of nutrition, they fall under the broader category of essential nutrients. For instance, macro-nutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which provide energy and support bodily functions. Minerals are a subset of essential nutrients, needed for various physiological functions, and trace elements refer to specific minerals required in smaller amounts. However, the most encompassing term that includes all of these vital components is "essential nutrients."