While we are mostly focused on meeting the daily requirement of macronutrients, we mostly overlook the health benefits offered by micronutrients.
Micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, play essential roles in maintaining health and ensuring proper bodily functions. Though required in smaller amounts compared to macronutrients like proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, their impact on health is highly significant.
A new study published in The Lancet Global Health journal has found that in India men and women of all age groups do not have sufficient micronutrients in their diets or supplements. The study is the first to provide estimates of insufficient consumption of 15 micronutrients across 185 countries, taken through diets without the use of supplements, according to an international team, including researchers from Harvard University, US.
It found that in India, while more women consumed insufficient amounts of iodine, compared to men, more men consumed inadequate amounts of zinc and magnesium, compared to women.
In this study, the authors used publicly available data from the Global Dietary Database to estimate the prevalence of insufficient nutrient intakes for 99.3 per cent of the global population.
This draws attention to the key players of our diet that are ignored. Micronutrients include vitamins like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin B, Vitamin D, etc. It also includes minerals like iron, calcium, folate, sodium, zinc, etc.
Vitamins are organic compounds crucial for various metabolic processes. For instance, vitamin A is vital for vision, immune function, and skin health, while vitamin C supports the immune system, aids in collagen synthesis, and enhances iron absorption. B vitamins, including B12 and folate, are important for energy production and red blood cell formation, while vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health.
Minerals, such as calcium, potassium, and iron, are inorganic substances that support numerous physiological functions. Calcium is critical for maintaining strong bones and teeth, while potassium helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance. Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, necessary for oxygen transport in the blood. Zinc supports immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. The balance of these minerals is crucial, as deficiencies or excesses can lead to health problems like anemia, osteoporosis, and hypertension.
Micronutrients also play a role in enzymatic reactions, hormone production, and antioxidant defense. For example, selenium and zinc are important for antioxidant enzymes that protect cells from oxidative damage. Without adequate micronutrient intake, the body’s ability to perform these vital functions can be compromised, leading to increased susceptibility to illness, impaired growth and development, and reduced overall quality of life.
