Micronutrients are defined as:

Micronutrients are defined as nutrients that are essential to our diet in small amounts. This category primarily includes vitamins and minerals, which play critical roles in various bodily functions despite being required in significantly lower quantities compared to macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

These micronutrients are vital for processes such as immune function, energy production, and bone health. They help facilitate the utilization of macronutrients for energy and are involved in numerous biochemical reactions in the body. Even in small amounts, insufficient intake of these nutrients can lead to severe health issues, highlighting their importance in a balanced diet.

The other definitions do not accurately capture the essence of micronutrients. For example, the notion of requiring larger quantities aligns more with macronutrients, while vitamins alone do not encompass the entire definition of micronutrients, as minerals are also included. Additionally, the idea that nutrients supply energy directly refers more to macronutrients rather than micronutrients, which do not yield energy but are essential for energy metabolism.