What are amino acids primarily known as?

Amino acids are primarily known as the building blocks of proteins because they are the fundamental components that combine to form proteins through peptide bonds. Proteins play crucial roles in the body, including muscle development, enzyme function, and the support of immune responses.

Each protein is made up of a specific sequence of amino acids, each contributing to the protein's unique structure and function. The body can synthesize some amino acids, known as non-essential amino acids, while others, called essential amino acids, must be obtained through the diet. This essential nature highlights the importance of amino acids in nutrition and biological functions.

The other options, such as energy sources, vitamins and minerals, or types of fats, refer to different categories of nutrients that do not accurately represent the primary role of amino acids in the context of human physiology and biochemistry.