What are the main functions of vitamins in nutrition?

Vitamins play crucial roles in nutrition primarily as cofactors in various metabolic processes, which includes but is not limited to enzyme function, hormone synthesis, and cellular processes. They are essential for maintaining overall health and facilitating biochemical reactions within the body. Unlike macronutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, vitamins do not provide energy directly, but they are instrumental in enabling the body to derive energy from these macronutrients.

Vitamins contribute to processes such as the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, which ultimately supports energy production indirectly. Additionally, they are involved in other vital functions such as immune function, antioxidant protection, blood clotting, and the maintenance of healthy skin and vision. This comprehensive role highlights that while vitamins are essential for metabolic processes, they do not serve as a direct source of energy like macronutrients do.

Other choices focus on limited aspects of vitamin functions, overlooking their broader role in overall metabolic health and well-being. For instance, stating that vitamins are only involved in energy production or tissue repair narrows their significance, while implying that they are solely associated with weight management neglects their various functions in the body.