What nutrient is known to provide energy at a slower rate but can sustain energy for an extended period?

Fats are known to provide energy at a slower rate, making them an excellent source for sustained energy over an extended period. This is primarily due to their chemical structure, which requires more time for the body to break down and convert into usable energy compared to other nutrients. While carbohydrates, especially simple carbohydrates, can provide quick energy bursts, they tend to be short-lived, leading to fluctuations in energy levels.

Complex carbohydrates also offer longer-lasting energy compared to simple carbohydrates, but fats are unique in their ability to fuel the body for longer durations, particularly during prolonged, low to moderate-intensity activities. Proteins, while essential for various bodily functions, are not primarily used for energy production; instead, they serve critical roles in tissue repair and growth. Thus, fats are the nutrient most recognized for their capacity to deliver energy slowly and sustainably.