Which statement about vitamins and minerals in energy metabolism is correct?

• A. B vitamins act as coenzymes in energy production; examples include thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2).
• B. Vitamin C is the primary energy source.
• C. Minerals do not participate in energy release.
• D. Vitamin A and Vitamin D are the main coenzymes for energy.

Answer: (A)

Energy metabolism relies on helpers that enable enzymes to convert nutrients into ATP. B vitamins provide essential coenzymes for key steps in glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. For example, thiamine (B1) as thiamine pyrophosphate helps decarboxylate pyruvate, linking glycolysis to the TCA cycle, while riboflavin (B2) as FAD participates in redox reactions within energy-producing pathways. This makes B vitamins indispensable for turning carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy.

Vitamin C is not a source of energy; its roles are more about antioxidant protection and other functions, not fueling ATP production. Minerals do participate in energy release—cofactors like magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and others are essential for ATP synthesis and electron transport—so the idea that minerals do not participate isn’t accurate. Vitamins A and D are not the main coenzymes for energy metabolism; they support vision, bone health, immunity, and other functions.