What type of substance can be classified as a nutrient?

A nutrient is defined as a substance that provides nourishment essential for the maintenance of life and for growth. This includes substances that the body requires to function properly, such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, which are primarily derived from food or ingredients we consume. These nutrients are crucial for various bodily functions, including energy production, immune function, and tissue repair.

The other options do not fall within the standard definition of nutrients. A synthetic chemical compound may not necessarily provide nourishment and could even be harmful or lacking in nutritional value. A detoxifying agent, while potentially beneficial for certain health aspects, does not qualify as a nutrient because its primary role is not to provide nourishment. A non-digestible bulk, such as dietary fiber, although important for digestive health, does not directly supply nutrients in the traditional sense, as it is not broken down and absorbed by the body for energy or building blocks. Therefore, the correct classification as a nutrient is given only to substances that provide direct nourishment.