Micronutrients is an umbrella term for vitamins and minerals, many of which are essential for human health. Although only required in small amounts, micronutrients perform a number of essential functions within the body.
Deficiencies in micronutrients can lead to a number of health issues, which is why it is essential that you consume adequate amounts in your diet and get supplementation right if you choose to take vitamin or mineral supplements.
Let’s take a deep dive into why consuming adequate amounts of micronutrients is vital for great long-term health and longevity.
Metabolism
Many essential vitamins and minerals play a role in metabolism and enzymatic function by acting as coenzymes or cofactors in metabolic reactions. Consuming adequate micronutrients can support a healthy metabolism and produce the risk of metabolic disorders and unwanted weight gain.
Immunity
Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and selenium are essential for immune function. Vitamin A supports a healthy mucosa, which is required to keep pathogens from entering the body as part of the innate immune system.
Vitamin C is necessary for antioxidant function and phagocytosis, vitamin D helps to activate other immune cells, such as T and B lymphocytes, and zinc and selenium are potent antioxidants. Consuming enough of each of these macronutrients can, therefore, reduce your risk of developing infections and illnesses by keeping your immune system strong.
Cardiovascular health
Certain micronutrients, including the B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, contribute to great cardiovascular health. The B vitamins contribute to healthy metabolism and reduce the levels of homocysteine, which is known to contribute to poor cardiovascular health.
Potassium and magnesium contribute to healthy blood pressure and heart rhythm, and calcium is necessary for the regular, rhythmical contraction of the heart muscle, known as the myocardium.
Hair, skin, and nails
Micronutrients are required for healthy hair, skin, and nails. In particular, vitamins, A, C, and E are particularly important for the skin, and iron contributes to healthy hair growth alongside a number of other dietary components. The B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, and magnesium are essential micronutrients for strong nails.
Fertility and health during pregnancy
Adequate micronutrient consumption is vital for great reproductive health and can positively impact fertility. The female body requires a number of vitamins and minerals to mature follicles, ovulate, and build a healthy uterine lining each month.
The requirements for vitamins A, B2, C, D, and folate increase during pregnancy, as do energy and protein needs. Folate supports the healthy growth and development of the foetus by reducing the risk of neural tube defects, which can lead to chronic health problems like spina bifida.
In males, inadequate micronutrient intake can reduce sperm quality and numbers, thereby reducing fertility. More specifically, zinc, selenium, folate, and vitamin B12 have been shown to improve reproductive health and fertility in males.
