Which nutrients must be broken down in order to be absorbed?a.carbohydrate, vitamins, and mineralsb.vitamins, minerals, and waterc.carbohydrate, protein, and fatd.fat, protein, and minerals

The nutrients that must be broken down in order to be absorbed are carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. So, the correct answer is c. Carbohydrate, protein, and fat.

Here's why:

1. Carbohydrates: These are broken down into simple sugars like glucose that can be absorbed in the small intestine.

2. Proteins: These are broken down into amino acids or small peptides that can be directly absorbed by the small intestine.

3. Fats: These are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol, which can be absorbed by the small intestine.

Vitamins, minerals, and water are also essential nutrients, but they do not need to be broken down before absorption. They can be absorbed in their existing state.