What are minerals primarily known for in the human body?

Minerals are primarily known for being inorganic substances that are essential for various physiological functions in the human body. They play crucial roles, including maintaining bone health, supporting nerve function, aiding in muscle contraction, and regulating fluid balance. Each mineral serves specific functions, such as calcium for bone strength, potassium for nerve transmission, and iron for oxygen transport in the blood. A diet containing sufficient minerals is important for overall health, as deficiencies can lead to significant health issues.

While the other options reference aspects related to nutrition, they do not accurately describe the primary role of minerals. For instance, promoting muscle growth primarily pertains to proteins and certain hormones rather than minerals. Similarly, while minerals do not provide energy directly as macronutrients do (such as carbohydrates or fats), they are crucial for the metabolic pathways that enable energy production in cells. Lastly, vitamins, rather than minerals, specifically target immune function enhancement. Thus, the recognition of minerals as necessary inorganic substances is foundational to understanding their importance in human health.