What Are Micronutrients?

Micronutrients are essential vitamins and minerals that help the body function properly. The human body cannot naturally produce these vitamins and minerals. The only way to get these nutrients is through the consumption of plants and animals. The body breaks down vitamins to absorb nutrients while minerals stay in the body for absorption. The subcategories of micronutrients are fat-soluble vitamins, trace minerals, water-soluble vitamins, and macrominerals.

The basics of fat-soluble vitamins

Fat-soluble vitamins are stored within the body’s liver and fatty tissues following distribution through the bloodstream. The liver breaks down fat and flushes toxins out of the body. Fat-soluble vitamins improve the immune system, vision, blood, and bone health. Fat-soluble vitamins dissolve in oil and fat and are found in animal products, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Doctors recommend consuming these vitamins alongside a fat source for better absorption. Examples of fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins K, D, A, and E.

Understanding water-soluble vitamins

The body absorbs water-soluble vitamins through water and expels the excess in urine. Unlike fat-soluble vitamins, water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the body for long. The body tissues immediately soak up and use these vitamins. Therefore, people must constantly consume foods rich in these vitamins to reap the benefits. The vitamin b-complex which includes vitamins B1-B7, B9, and B12 are water-soluble vitamins. These vitamins assist with everything from metabolism function to blood cell development. Vitamin C is also water-soluble.

The importance of macrominerals and trace minerals

Minerals help the body with hormone function and production along with muscle, heart, and bone health. The body needs large amounts of macronutrients and smaller amounts of trace minerals to function. Calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus are important macrominerals. Zinc, iron, iodine, and fluoride are vital trace minerals. The body absorbs minerals from foods like fish, nuts, vegetables, and grains.

Can I get all the micronutrients I need through my diet?

Ideally, individuals should be receiving all the necessary nutrients through dietary intake. Realistically, this can be hard to do because most people do not have the appropriate well-balanced diets. Furthermore, other factors like medical issues or environmental factors can affect the consumption or production of vital micronutrients. In these cases, using dietary supplements can help patients receive the right amount of vitamins and nutrients.

Taking dietary supplements

Dietary supplements are specialized nutrients available in pill, powder, capsule, and liquid form. These supplements are available in health food stores and other retail markets. Taking these supplements can help a patient receive the nutrients missing from the diet. Supplements can either include a multitude of different nutrients like a multivitamin or just one type of nutrient like a vitamin E capsule.

Ask a professional

People interested in adding dietary supplements to a diet should consult with a physician. A medical professional will be able to evaluate a patient to determine any vitamin deficiencies and recommend the right supplements or dietary changes.