Why are vitamins essential for the human body?

Vitamins are essential for the human body primarily because they are organic compounds necessary for various metabolic processes. Each vitamin plays a unique role in bodily functions, including the regulation of enzymes, supporting the immune system, aiding in energy production, and promoting overall health. Unlike macronutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which provide energy, vitamins do not supply energy themselves. Instead, they facilitate the biochemical reactions that enable the body to convert food into energy.

For instance, B vitamins are crucial for energy metabolism, while vitamins A, C, D, E, and K are vital for functions ranging from vision and immune defense to blood clotting. This underscores the importance of vitamins as regulators in the intricate networks of biochemical pathways that sustain life.