What is the main function of vitamins in the body?

Vitamins play a critical role in supporting bodily processes, which encompasses a wide range of functions essential for maintaining health and well-being. They are crucial in metabolic pathways, assisting enzymes to facilitate reactions that are vital for sustaining life. For example, certain vitamins aid in energy production, immune function, blood clotting, and the synthesis of DNA.

While vitamins do not directly provide energy like macronutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, they are essential for converting these nutrients into energy that the body can use. This supportive role enables the body to function optimally, ensuring that various physiological mechanisms operate smoothly.

The other options focus on functions not primarily associated with vitamins. Providing energy is more directly related to carbohydrates and fats. Increasing muscle mass is predominantly influenced by protein intake and resistance training. Regulating body temperature is primarily managed through physiological processes involving the skin and circulatory system, rather than vitamins specifically. Therefore, the main function of vitamins relates directly to their supportive role in numerous bodily processes, making this answer the most accurate.