Which term refers to the chemical substances in food that help maintain the body?

The term that refers to chemical substances in food that help maintain the body is "nutrients." Nutrients are essential components that organisms need to survive, grow, and function effectively. They include a broad range of substances, including vitamins, minerals, macronutrients (such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats), and water. Each type of nutrient plays a specific role in bodily functions, promoting health, supporting metabolic processes, and contributing to overall well-being.

While minerals and vitamins are indeed crucial nutrients, they are categories within the broader classification of nutrients. Macronutrients also fall under the umbrella of nutrients, specifying those needed in larger amounts to provide energy and support vital functions. By understanding nutrients as the overarching term, one recognizes that they encompass all substances necessary for bodily maintenance and health.