Micronutrients
Micronutrients are essential vitamins and minerals that the body requires in small amounts to function optimally. Despite their small size, micronutrients play a crucial role in many bodily functions, including energy production, immune system function, and bone health. It is important to consume these nutrients in the right amounts to maintain optimal health and prevent nutrient deficiencies.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), micronutrient deficiencies are common in the United States, with over 10% of the population deficient in at least one micronutrient. The most common deficiencies include vitamin D, vitamin B6, iron, calcium, and magnesium. Consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods is the best way to ensure adequate intake of micronutrients. These foods include:
Fruits and vegetables: These are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, and potassium.
Whole grains: Whole grains are a good source of B vitamins, iron, and zinc.
Nuts and seeds: These are good sources of vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium.
Legumes: Legumes are rich in folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Dairy products: Dairy products are a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.
Seafood: Seafood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and minerals such as iodine and selenium.
Meat and poultry: These are good sources of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Fortified foods: Fortified foods, such as fortified cereals and plant-based milks, are a good source of nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12
Athletes, for example, may require higher amounts of vitamins and minerals to support energy production, muscle function, and recovery from exercise. A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that athletes who consume a diet high in micronutrients may have a performance advantage over those who consume a diet low in micronutrients.
Another important consideration when it comes to micronutrient consumption is bioavailability, or how easily the body can absorb and use a nutrient. For example, heme iron, which is found in animal-based foods such as meat, poultry, and fish, is more easily absorbed by the body than non-heme iron, which is found in plant-based foods such as spinach, lentils, and beans.
In conclusion, consuming a diet rich in a variety of nutrient-dense foods is the best way to ensure adequate intake of micronutrients. Athletes, pregnant women, and the elderly may require higher amounts of certain micronutrients. Additionally, considering bioavailability and the amino acid profile of protein sources can help ensure optimal intake of these important nutrients.
Sources:
"Micronutrient Facts," Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 28 July 2021, https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/micronutrient-malnutrition/micronutrients/index.html.
Wardenaar, Floris C., et al. "Micronutrient Intakes in 553 Dutch Elite and Sub-Elite Athletes: Prevalence of Low and High Intakes in Users and Non-Users of Nutritional Supplements." Nutrients, vol. 9, no. 2, 2017, p. 142., doi:10.3390/nu9020142.
Nieman, David C., and Leslie Bonci. "Nutritional Supplements in Sports and Exercise." Springer International Publishing, 2015.
Phillips, Stuart M. "The Role of Protein in Building Muscle." Scientific American, 7 Jan. 2020, https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-role-of-protein-in