What advantage did the use of fire provide to early humans?

The use of fire provided significant advantages to early humans in both protection from predators and cooking food for better nutrition. Fire acted as a barrier against wild animals, helping to keep early humans safe from potential threats during the night or while they were vulnerable. Additionally, cooking food with fire vastly improved the nutritional value of their diet. Heating food makes it easier to digest and allows the release of more nutrients, which could have played a crucial role in the development of their brains and overall health. This dual benefit of fire—enhancing safety and improving food sources—was pivotal for the evolution and survival of early human societies.