How Important Are Micronutrients?

In the modern-day world, we are constantly blasted with (often contradicting) information about nutrition. Some people swear by the importance of protein and animal products, while others tell us it’s all about the caloric balance. Now, because fat, protein and carbohydrates are taking the majority of the attention, one thing remains quite ignored…

That is namely, the importance of micronutrients, which is the topic of discussion for today! So without further ado, let's get in-depth on micronutrients and discuss what they are, what they do in the body and what the best sources are!

Macro VS Micro

So what exactly is the difference between macronutrients and micronutrients? Well, as the names suggest, macronutrients are the primary nutrients our bodies need in big quantities - these are your Proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

These nutrients provide caloric value, and are needed to sustain a healthy body weight and physiological functioning. On the other hand, micronutrients do not really have a caloric value, but they are just as important. This is due to their role in a variety of important processes all around the body.

Micronutrients include phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants! The body needs these nutrients to sustain the production of a variety of enzymes and hormones, which relate to the overall healthy functioning of an organism.

Micronutrient Deficiencies

Though the body needs micronutrients in small amounts, their absence quickly surfaces with a flurry of unwanted side effects. For example, a magnesium deficiency can cause you to:

1. Have poor sleep

2. Crave sugar

3. Cramp

4. Lose focus

Vitamins and minerals are an important part of human nutrition - helping kids grow healthy and strong, and sustaining the health of adults. Fortunately enough, micronutrient deficiencies are generally easy to diagnose and can be seamlessly treated with various supplements and foods.

Common Micronutrient Deficiencies

With the abundance of nutrient-poor foods that many people survive on, micronutrient deficiencies are quite a common thing! Here are the most common micronutrient deficiencies found in humans:

1. Vitamin B12

2. Iron deficiency

3. Iodine

4. Magnesium

5. Vitamin D

Some of these are easy to diagnose and don’t have much risk. But others can cause severe discomfort, and if sustained in the long term, damage to the body. For instance, B12 deficiencies which are common in vegans and vegetarians, can lead to anemia, memory issues, mood swings, irregular work of the heart and even neurological problems.

Micronutrient-Rich Foods

Unless you have severe deficiencies, micronutrient supplements are not really mandatory, as most deficiencies can be treated with a slight change in nutritional habits. Let’s have a look at the most vitamin & mineral-abundant foods:

1. Fatty fish - Omega-3s, vitamin D

2. Citrus fruits - Vitamin C, Folic acid

3. Carrots - Vitamin A

4. Eggs- Vitamin B, Iron

5. Avocados - Vitamins B2, B5, B6 (And tons of healthy fat!)

6. Kiwis - Vitamin A, C, E, K, Folate & Choline

Including these foods in your menu regularly will keep you away from deficiencies and maintain a balanced inner chemistry. Don’t like diversifying your food sources? Shoot for micronutrient supplements!

Take-Home Message

Your best nutrition plan is a good balance between macronutrients, micronutrients and calories. Though micronutrients do not provide a caloric value, they play important roles in a variety of bodily functions.

Because their deficiencies will lead to worsened function, it is important to grant sufficient micro-nutrition through your food. Last but not least, micronutrients don’t really need to be tracked - as long as you consume a variety of foods in decent amounts.