Samboan, Cebu – The term micronutrients refer to vitamins and minerals in general. Humans must obtain micronutrients from food because, for the most part, your body cannot produce vitamins and minerals. That is why they are also known as essential nutrients. Vitamins are required for energy production, immune function, blood clotting, and a variety of other processes. Meanwhile, minerals are essential for growth, bone health, fluid balance, and a variety of other processes.

They serve a variety of purposes, including allowing the body to produce enzymes, hormones, and other substances required for normal growth and development. Even though people only require trace amounts of micronutrients, consuming the recommended amount is critical. That is why they are referred to as "micro." Micronutrient deficiencies can be life-threatening. Iron, vitamin A, and iodine deficiencies are the most common all over the world, especially in children and pregnant women.

Water-soluble vitamins, fat-soluble vitamins, macrominerals, and trace minerals are the four types of vitamins and minerals.

Water-soluble vitamins circulate freely throughout the body and are typically excreted by the kidneys. The body requires water-soluble vitamins in small, frequent doses. Thiamine (vitamin B1), Riboflavin (vitamin B2), Niacin (vitamin B3), Pyridoxine (vitamin B6), Folic acid, Cobalamin (vitamin B12), and Ascorbic acid are a few examples (vitamin C).

Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the cells of the body and are not as easily excreted as water-soluble vitamins. They do not need to be consumed as frequently as water-soluble vitamins, but enough are required. A fat-soluble vitamin in excess can be toxic. A well-balanced diet usually provides adequate amounts of fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamin A (beta-carotene), Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K.

Macrominerals require more minerals than trace minerals to perform their specific functions in your body. Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Sodium, Chloride, Potassium, and Sulfur are the elements. Trace minerals, such as iron, manganese, copper, zinc, iodine, fluoride, and selenium, are required in smaller amounts than macrominerals but still perform important functions in your body.

Micronutrient deficiencies can cause visible and dangerous health problems, but they can also cause less clinically noticeable decreases in energy, mental clarity, and overall capacity. This can result in poor educational outcomes, decreased workplace productivity, and an increased risk of other diseases and health conditions. Aim for a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods to get an adequate amount of micronutrients. // ND II Bea Margaux E. Cornelia, RND