Texas Tech Nutrition Exit Practice Test

Micronutrients are needed in small amounts and mainly support metabolism by acting as enzyme cofactors and as antioxidants. They don’t supply energy themselves; calories come from macronutrients—carbs, fats, and proteins. Many enzymes rely on metal ions or organic cofactors to function, enabling metabolic reactions throughout the body. Vitamins and minerals also help protect cells from oxidative damage as antioxidants. Although some micronutrients contribute to structural roles in bones or tissues, they are not exclusively structural components, and taking them in megadoses is not required and can be harmful. So the statement that they can serve as cofactors for enzyme function and as antioxidants is the accurate one.