Plural of cofactor; non-protein substances (like vitamins or minerals) that help enzymes do their chemical work in living cells.
From co- (Latin: together) + factor (from Latin facere, to make or do). The term emerged in biochemistry in the 20th century when scientists realized that many enzymes needed helper molecules to function properly.
Zinc, iron, and B vitamins are cofactors—without them, your enzymes are like a car without fuel. This is why people with mineral deficiencies can feel exhausted or sick; their enzymes are literally running in slow motion waiting for the cofactors they need.
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