Topics Ready...

Every Vitamin & Mineral the Body Needs (Micronutrients Explained)?

27, Jan, 2024

Macro and Micronutrients:

Macro Nutrients:

These are nutrients required by the body in relatively large amounts.

Examples: Carbohydrates, proteins, fats.

Micronutrients:

These are nutrients required by the body in smaller amounts but are equally essential for good health.

Examples: Vitamins and minerals.

Functions of Each Nutrient:

Vitamin A:

Essential for vision, immune function, skin health, and proper functioning of organs.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):

Aids in energy metabolism, especially the conversion of carbohydrates into energy.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin):

Supports energy production, cell growth, and maintenance of healthy skin and eyes.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin):

Plays a role in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and skin health.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid):

Essential for the synthesis of fatty acids and the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine):

Involved in amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and red blood cell formation.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin):

Supports metabolism, particularly of fatty acids, amino acids, and glucose.

Vitamin B9 (Folate or Folic Acid):

Vital for DNA synthesis, cell division, and prevention of neural tube defects during pregnancy.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin):

Essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and neurological function.

Other "B Vitamins":

Functions: Varied roles, including energy metabolism, cell division, and maintaining healthy skin and nerves.

Choline:

Important for brain development, neurotransmitter synthesis, and lipid metabolism.

Vitamin C:

Acts as an antioxidant, supports immune function, aids in collagen synthesis, and enhances iron absorption.

Vitamin D:

Facilitates calcium absorption, crucial for bone health, and supports immune function.

Vitamin E:

Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage, and supports immune function.

Vitamin K:

Essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism.

Other Lettered Vitamins:

Functions: Varied roles in metabolism, immune function, and overall health.

Calcium:

Essential for bone and teeth formation, blood clotting, and muscle function.

Chloride:

Maintains fluid balance, helps with digestion, and is an essential component of stomach acid.

Chromium:

Aids in insulin action, contributing to the regulation of blood sugar levels.

Copper:

Involved in iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, and antioxidant function.

Iodine:

Essential for thyroid hormone synthesis, which regulates metabolism.

Iron:

Critical for oxygen transport in the blood, energy production, and immune function.

Magnesium:

Involved in muscle and nerve function, bone health, and energy metabolism.

Manganese:

Supports bone formation, blood clotting, and antioxidant defense.

Molybdenum:

A cofactor for enzymes involved in the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids.

Phosphorus:

Important for bone and teeth formation, energy metabolism, and acid-base balance.

Potassium:

Maintains fluid balance, supports nerve and muscle function, and helps regulate blood pressure.

Selenium:

Acts as an antioxidant, supports thyroid function, and plays a role in immune function.

Sodium:

Essential for fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.

Sulfur:

A component of certain amino acids and vitamins, supporting protein structure and function.

Zinc:

Essential for immune function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and growth.