There's no denying that food has an impact on one's health. To nourish the body and protect it from diseases, deficiencies, inflammation, and oxidative stress, it is critical to consume high-quality, nutrient-dense foods. There are two types of nutrients to consider when it comes to nutrition: macronutrients and micronutrients. This blog will talk about micronutrients and how getting enough of them in your diet can help your body function better.
But first, let's understand these micronutrients:
What are micronutrients?
They include proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Because our bodies cannot produce vitamins and minerals in a free state, we must obtain them from food sources. Every food has a different micronutrient content; it's best to eat various foods to get enough vitamins and minerals. The micronutrient content of each food differs; it's best to eat multiple foods to ensure you get enough.
Types of micronutrients:
Water-soluble vitamins:
Most vitamins are referred to as water-soluble vitamins because they dissolve in water. They are not easily stored in the body and are flushed out with urine when consumed in excess. They play a critical role in the energy generation process. Because they are not stored in the body, consuming enough of them from various food sources is essential.
Fat-soluble vitamins
These vitamins are not soluble in water. They are easily absorbed when consumed with a source of fat. After consumption, fat-soluble vitamins are stored in your liver and fatty tissues for future use.
Vitamins A, D, E, and K are essential fat-soluble micronutrients. They are required for the proper functioning of the immune system, bone development, vision, and cell protection.
Mineral traces
These are only needed in trace amounts, but they play an essential role in our bodies. The body requires iron, manganese, copper, zinc, iodine, fluoride, and selenium, among other trace minerals.
The following are some of the functions of trace minerals:
- Iron: Assists in producing certain hormones and helps provide oxygen to muscles.
- Manganese aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids, and cholesterol.
- Copper is necessary for the formation of connective tissue and normal brain and nervous system function.
- Zinc is a mineral required for average growth, immune function, and wound healing.
- Iodine: Helps regulate the thyroid gland.
Why do you need an adequate amount of consumption?
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for good health and may even help to prevent disease. This is because micronutrients play a role in nearly every bodily function. Specific vitamins and minerals also contain antioxidants.
Antioxidants may aid in preventing cell damage, which has been linked to diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
