Wednesday, November 13, 2013

What are Micronutrients?

Micronutrients are the vitamins and minerals that our bodies require in very small quantities to promote growth and development. These include macrominerals (e.g. potassium, calcium, sodium), organic acids (e.g. citric acid, lactic acid), trace minerals (e.g. iron, zinc, chromium), and vitamins (e.g. A, B complex, C, D, E, K). These are the nutrients that enable the body to produce enzymes, hormones, and other substances essential for proper growth and development. If your body doesn’t get the small quantities of micronutrients it needs, the consequences can be severe.

Micronutrients help maintain the body’s systems:
- Sodium maintains the proper fluid balance in your body. It helps fluid to pass through the cell walls and helps to regulate appropriate pH levels in  your blood.
- Magnesium helps the heart maintain its normal rhythm. It aids in the conversion of glucose into energy and is necessary for the metabolism of the macromineral calcium as well as vitamin C.
- Manganese is responsible for the promotion of bone formation and energy production. It helps the body metabolize macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fat)

Micronutrient deficiencies:
Iodine – Iodine deficiency is the most prevalent cause of brain damage in the world, yet is also easily preventable. Iodine deficiency is one of the main causes of impaired cognitive development in children. Serious iodine deficiencies during pregnancy can lead to congenital abnormalities and death. The solution: iodized salt!

Vitamin A – Vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of preventable blindness in children. A deficiency in this vitamin can also increase the risk of disease and death from severe infections. In pregnant women, a deficiency of vitamin A can cause night blindness and may increase the risk of maternal mortality. Good sources of this vitamin include: sweet potatoes, carrots, dark, leafy greens, paprika, red pepper, cayenne, chili powder, and liver.

Iron – Iron deficiency is the most common in the world, and the only one that is prevalent in developed countries. Over 30% of the world’s population suffers from
iron deficiency anemia. Good sources of iron include meat (liver is the highest source), beans, lentils, spinach, broccoli, and fortified oatmeal.

How I get my micronutrients:
Making sure you ingest the proper amount of micronutrients will ensure optimal health! Personally, I make sure that I am getting all of the micronutrients my body needs with my daily dose of dense nutrition – Shakeology.
Shakeology has been a part of my daily health routine for the past year. I drink it every day! When you can put optimum nutrition; whole foods and super foods from all over the world without ANYTHING artificial into one glass, you bet your bottom dollar I'll be all over it!!

Having trouble finding the right balance? Contact me today and let’s get started on a plan that will work for you!




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