What macronutrient is essential for repairing tissues?

Protein is the macronutrient essential for repairing tissues due to its role in the formation of new cells and the repair of damaged ones. It is made up of amino acids, many of which are vital for cellular structure and function. The body uses proteins to build and repair muscles, skin, and other tissues, making them critical for recovery after injury or stress, as well as for growth and development.

Unlike carbohydrates and fats, which primarily serve as energy sources, or vitamins, which are important for various biochemical functions and metabolic processes, protein's primary role is to provide the building blocks necessary for tissue integrity and repair. This makes protein particularly significant in contexts such as post-exercise recovery, wound healing, and overall maintenance of body structures.