Micronutrients
Micronutrients
Micronutrients (/maɪkroʊˈnjuːtrɪənts/), also known as trace elements, are essential nutrients that the body needs in small amounts to function properly. They include vitamins, minerals, and certain other substances.
Etymology
The term "micronutrient" is derived from the Greek words "micro," meaning small, and "nutrient," meaning nourishing. It was first used in the early 20th century to describe nutrients that are required in minute quantities for human health.
Types of Micronutrients
Micronutrients can be divided into four main categories: Vitamins, Minerals, Trace Elements, and Phytochemicals.
- Vitamins are organic compounds that the body needs in small amounts for various metabolic processes. They include vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, among others.
- Minerals are inorganic substances that the body needs for a variety of functions, such as bone formation and blood clotting. They include calcium, potassium, and iron, among others.
- Trace Elements are minerals that the body needs in very small amounts. They include zinc, copper, and selenium, among others.
- Phytochemicals are naturally occurring plant compounds that have health-promoting properties. They include antioxidants, flavonoids, and polyphenols, among others.
Importance of Micronutrients
Micronutrients play a crucial role in human health. They are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including energy production, immune function, bone health, and DNA synthesis. A deficiency in any one of these micronutrients can lead to serious health problems.
Related Terms
- Macronutrients are nutrients that the body needs in large amounts, such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
- Nutrition is the science that interprets the interaction of nutrients and other substances in food in relation to maintenance, growth, reproduction, health and disease of an organism.
- Dietary Supplements are products intended to supplement the diet that contain one or more dietary ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, and certain other substances.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Micronutrients
- Wikipedia's article - Micronutrients
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