What is the primary function of vitamins and minerals in the body?

Vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in facilitating chemical reactions within the body. They act as co-factors or coenzymes in metabolic pathways that are essential for various physiological processes. For example, many B vitamins are key players in energy metabolism, helping to convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy. Additionally, minerals like magnesium and zinc are vital for enzyme function, assisting in diverse biochemical reactions that sustain health.

While vitamins and minerals do support functions such as immune health and protein synthesis, their primary role is indeed to facilitate these chemical reactions that keep bodily systems functioning optimally. This encompasses a wide range of reactions necessary for metabolism, growth, and repair, marking their foundational importance in nutrition and health.