Micronutrients are essential nutrients that are vital to our bodies in small amounts. They act as "software programs" for our body's processes, much like software enables a computer to function. A deficiency in these nutrients can lead to serious health problems.

What are micronutrients?

Micronutrients include:

Vitamins: Essential for growth, disease resistance and overall health. For example, vitamin D is crucial for bone health, while vitamin C supports the immune system.

Minerals : Important building blocks for bones and teeth. Calcium and phosphorus are the most important ones.

Trace elements: Despite their need in tiny amounts, iron, iodine and zinc are critical for functions such as oxygen transport, thyroid function and wound healing.

Secondary plant substances: These can have preventive effects against chronic diseases. Examples of these are flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties.

Amino acids: The building blocks of proteins. A deficiency can impair muscle growth and general tissue repair.

Enzymes: Catalysts for all chemical processes in the body. Without enzymes, metabolism would come to a standstill.

Factors of micronutrient deficiency

Various contemporary circumstances contribute to micronutrient deficiencies:

Agricultural practices: Due to monocultures and depleted soils, foods are often grown with reduced micronutrient levels.

Breeding and harvesting practices: Focusing on aesthetics and taste can compromise nutrient density. Harvesting before full maturity will result in further deficiencies.

Pesticide use: These chemicals can hinder the ability of plants to absorb micronutrients.

Drug use: Some medications disrupt the intestinal flora or have a direct impact on the nutrient balance of the cells.

The importance of micronutrients

A lack of micronutrients can lead to various health problems. Iron deficiency, for example, is a leading cause of anemia, which manifests itself in fatigue and weakness. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to vision problems and increase the risk of infectious diseases.

However, it is not just the absence of disease that makes micronutrients so important. Adequate intake is also crucial for optimizing overall health and performance. For example, studies have shown that an adequate intake of vital nutrients can reduce the risk of certain lifestyle diseases and improve health.