Micronutrients - Keeper of your Health!

Micronutrients, as the name suggest, are substances required in minute quantities for proper growth and development. Imbalanced intake of micronutrients leads to deficiency or toxicity conditions thereby causing serious health problems.

Vitamins include both fat-soluble types like vitamin A, D, E and K and water-soluble type like vitamin B-complex and vitamin C. While, minerals include zinc, copper, iron, iodine, manganese and selenium.

Role and Sources-

1. Vitamin A- Promotes good vision and healthy immune system.
Sources- Oranges, carrots, meat and fish.

2. Vitamin B complex- Essential for normal neurological and physiological functioning of the body.
Sources- Fish, cheese, mushrooms and lentils.

3. Vitamin C- Assists in wound healing and serves as an antioxidant that fight free radicals.
Sources- Cabbage, tomato, green pepper and citrus fruits (grapes, oranges).

4. Vitamin D- Important for bone and teeth health.
Sources- Salmon, Cod liver oil, tuna, cheddar cheese and mackerel.

5. Vitamin E- Repairs damaged skin and fights free radicals. It possess anti-aging properties.
Sources- Sunflower oil and seed and peanut.

6. Vitamin K- Regulates in normal blood coagulation. Also helps in bone health.
Sources- cauliflower, cabbage, and fish.

7. Zinc- Boosts immune system, regulates blood sugar, and assists in wound healing, and breakdown of carbohydrates.
Sources- Nuts, cereals, and shellfish.

8. Iron- Improves hemoglobin formation and treats anemia.
Sources- Egg yolk, lentils, red meat and dried fruit.

9. Iodine- Controls functioning of thyroid gland. It also removes toxins from the body.
Sources- Iodized salt, soyabean, spinach and fish.

10. Selenium- Prevents coronary heart disease and is a powerful antioxidant that fights free-radicals.
Sources- Eggs, green vegetables, sunflower seeds, fish, mushroom.

11. Copper- Cures arthritis and helps in absorption and metabolism of iron.
Sources- Almonds, raisins, nuts, and dark chocolate.

12. Manganese- Supports bone health, prevents arthritis and osteoporosis.
Sources- Beans and sweet potatoes.

Micronutrients have macro effect on your Health!