Which micronutrients are essential for human health?

Vitamins and minerals are classified as micronutrients, which are essential for a variety of physiological functions in the body. Micronutrients do not provide energy like macronutrients (fats, carbohydrates, and proteins) but play critical roles in processes such as metabolism, immunity, and bone health.

Vitamins are organic compounds that often function as coenzymes, facilitating various biochemical reactions. They are crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing deficiencies that can lead to serious health issues. Minerals, on the other hand, are inorganic elements that contribute to structural components of bones and teeth, aid in fluid balance, and are involved in nerve transmission and muscle contraction.

Understanding the distinction between micronutrients and macronutrients is vital for nutritional science, as it helps inform dietary recommendations and health management strategies. In contrast, the other options primarily focus on macronutrients or essential components that do not fall under the categories of vitamins and minerals, highlighting the unique characteristics and critical functions that micronutrients hold in human health.