What are micronutrients essential for, despite not being a source of energy?

Micronutrients, which include vitamins and minerals, play crucial roles in various bodily functions despite not being direct sources of energy. Energy production primarily pertains to macronutrients like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, which are metabolized to fuel the body's activities. However, micronutrients drive several vital metabolic processes.

In the context of energy production, while micronutrients don't provide calories, they are essential for the proper functioning of enzymes involved in the metabolic pathways that convert macronutrients into usable energy. For example, B vitamins are critical cofactors in the energy metabolism from carbohydrates and fats, facilitating the conversion of these macronutrients into ATP, the cell’s energy currency.

In summary, while micronutrients do not yield energy themselves, they are indispensable in supporting the body's energy production processes and ensuring that macronutrients are effectively converted into energy. This highlights their significance in overall health and metabolism.