What is the role of vitamins in nutrition?

Vitamins play a crucial role in supporting daily nutrient intake by acting as essential micronutrients that the body requires for various biochemical functions. They do not provide energy directly like macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, and proteins), but they are vital in helping the body utilize these macronutrients effectively. Each vitamin has specific roles — for example, some support immune function, promote healthy skin, and enhance metabolism.

While enhancing flavor and building muscle tissue are important aspects of nutrition, they are not the primary purpose of vitamins. Flavor is more closely related to the composition of food itself, while muscle tissue building primarily involves adequate protein intake, along with calories and hormones. Therefore, recognizing the role of vitamins as supportive components in the overall nutrient intake is key in understanding their significance in a balanced diet.