This month we start our quest into the World of Micro nutrients, what they denote and how their need is essential for the body – Micronutrients are just as important to our overall health as macronutrients (that we have been discussing over the last 40 plus articles.) Let the adventures of the “Micro World’ begin…
As the word “Micro” suggests, these Micronutrients are needed by the body in very small amounts. However, note that both deficiency or excess consumption can cause severe and even life-threatening conditions…hence they are to be taken just in the RIGHT AMOUNTS.
Many a times, our focus is so much on Protein, Carbohydrates and Healthy fats that we fail to pay attention to these “Micronutrients” that are equally important and must be a part of our DAILY DIETS.
No doubts, Proteins, Carbohydrates & Fats form the bulk of our dietary needs, which is why they are called “Macronutrients”, but let us not forget that it is our “Micronutrients” that make these “Macronutrients” usable in the body…Many digestive processes require significant amount of Micronutrients to complete the process of converting FOOD to ENERGY…lack of them & you will find yourself drained of energy, lethargic & irritable.
Micronutrient Deficiencies are detected when a person complains of reductions in energy level, lack of mental clarity and overall capacity to perform well – This can lead to reduced educational outcomes, reduced work productivity and increased risk from other diseases and health conditions.
Here are some FUNCTIONS that these Micronutrients perform for us – Get to know them & you will be convinced of their status in Healthy Lifestyle.
- Micronutrients perform or regulate various metabolic functions of the Micronutrients.
- Vitamins help resist infections – Keeping our Immune System STRONG
- Vitamins & Minerals keep the nervous system healthy
- As I mentioned earlier, Micronutrients produce and release energy from food.
- Micronutrients help blood to clot properly, thereby aiding in Healing Process.
- They play an important role in building proteins and Muscles
- Micronutrients contribute to making collagen, build bones, cell membranes.
- Vitamins essential for Perfect vision & excellent Skin
Micronutrients can be classified in two categories – Vitamins & Minerals – Both these essential nutrients perform a range of functions that sustain the various processes of the body – They enable the body to produce enzymes, hormones and other substances needed for normal growth and development.
A crucial aspect associated with Micronutrients is that they many of these cannot be produced by the body & also they deplete or degrade when stored inside the body for long, which is why they must be replenished regularly through the food we consume…once again a REMINDER – Micronutrient deficiencies & toxicities – Both cause visible and dangerous health conditions, sometimes leading to DEATH.
The GOOD NEWS is that many of these deficiencies are preventable – Eating a balanced diet is the answer…In the upcoming articles, we will discuss the many aspects associated with vitamins & Minerals – their Sources & consumption. I will also be sharing a few tips on how to incorporate “Micronutrients” in our daily meals in smart & innovative ways…To get you all started here’s the BRIEF OUTINE of the “Micronutrient Family.
Just as we have THREE Macronutrients – We have TWO Micronutrients – VITAMINS & MINERALS which are broadly classified into FOUR CATEGORIES…
- FAT Soluble Vitamins
- WATER Soluble Vitamins
- MACRO Minerals
- TRACE Minerals.
All of these are absorbed by the body in similar ways and tend to interact favorably with each other and amidst processes within, thus protecting the body overall. To give you a bird’s eye view of the importance of Micronutrients – here a snippet of information – Details will be discussed in the upcoming articles…
VITAMIN GROUP includes…
Fat-soluble vitamins – as the word suggests, these vitamins need a FAT to be dissolved – They do not dissolve in water and absorption is BEST when consumed along with a source of FAT. After absorption, these vitamins are stored in one’s liver and fatty tissues, to contribute to functions in the future…Their intake must be monitored…Excess can be lethal. They include Vitamin A, D, E, K
Water-soluble vitamins – as the word suggests dissolve easily in the water however, they do not remain stored in the body even if consumed in excess, as they get flushed out through urination…thus regular & daily intake is a MUST.
They include – Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and the vitamin B complex: thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), Vitamin B6, biotin (B7), folic acid (B9), Vitamin B12, and Vitamin A (in its Beta-Carotene form). While each of them has an individual part to play, their functions are all interrelated.
MINERAL GROUP includes…
Macro Minerals – required in huge amounts in order to perform their respective roles in the body. They include – calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride and Sulphur.
Trace Minerals, required in small amounts to efficiently perform functions in the body. They include – iron, manganese, copper, iodine, zinc, cobalt, fluoride and selenium.
To ANCHOR the IMPORTANCE of MICRONUTRIENTS…
Here’s the CONNECT
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the definition of Micronutrients “Called micronutrients because they are needed only in minuscule amounts, these substances are the “magic wands” that enable the body to produce enzymes, hormones, and other substances essential for proper growth and development. As tiny as the amounts are, however, the consequences of their absence can be severe.”
The next couple of weeks, we will be sharing detailed awareness related to the “Micronutrients” – Do stop by and get connected….Until then
Journeys & Reflections 