When it comes to our health, we often think about the big things. We make sure that we are eating a balanced diet, getting enough exercise, and sleeping well.
But what about our micronutrients? These are the vitamins and minerals that our bodies need in smaller amounts in order to function properly.
In this article, we will discuss what micronutrients do for you and how micronutrient testing can help you improve your health!
What are micronutrients?
Micronutrients are comprised of vitamins and minerals that play an essential role in human health. These nutrients are involved in many different biochemical processes and are necessary for the proper functioning of our bodies.
Vitamins
Vitamins are organic nutrients. There are two types of vitamins: water soluble and fat soluble.
Water soluble vitamins include the B-vitamins and vitamin C, while fat soluble vitamins include vitamin A, D, E, and K.
Minerals
Minerals are inorganic nutrients. There are two types of minerals: macrominerals and trace minerals.
Macrominerals include calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium.
Trace minerals are micronutrients that our bodies need in smaller amounts and include copper, zinc, selenium, and chromium.
What do micronutrients do for the body?
While we only need small amounts of micronutrients, they are still vital to our health. For example, micronutrients are important for:
- maintaining a healthy immune system,
- creating new blood cells,
- building strong bones and teeth,
- proper nerve and muscle function,
- and much more!
On the other side, deficiencies in micronutrients can lead to a number of health problems, including:
- weakness,
- fatigue,
- anemia,
- osteoporosis,
- muscle weakness,
- as well as other issues.
By identifying these deficiencies early, you can take steps to correct them and improve your health!
If I'm healthy and eat well, can I still be deficient in vital micronutrients?
Yes, you can. Even if you are eating a healthy diet, you may still be deficient in certain micronutrients. This is because our diets today do not always provide us with the nutrients we need.
In addition, certain medical conditions and medications can interfere with our ability to absorb micronutrients from our food. Smoking, drinking alcohol, physical and emotional stress, and poor lifestyle choices (such as a sedentary lifestyle) can also impact micronutrient status and demands.
Micronutrient requirements differ by age as well, so your micronutrient levels one year may not be the same as five years ago even without having made any changes to your diet or environment.
What is micronutrient testing?
Micronutrient testing is a simple blood test for assessing your micronutrient status and determining if you are deficient in any vitamins or minerals, which will allow you to take corrective steps.
How can micronutrient testing help me improve my health?
There are many benefits of micronutrient testing, including:
- better physical performance,
- improved mental clarity and focus,
- reduced stress levels,
- better sleep quality,
- and prevention of chronic diseases.
What do I do with the results of a micronutrient test?
First, bring the results to your doctor. He or she will be able to interpret the results and make recommendations on how to improve your micronutrient status.
Your doctor can recommend supplements or changes to your diet or lifestyle to correct any deficiencies. However, it is important to note that not all deficiencies can be corrected with supplements. In some cases, dietary changes or lifestyle modifications may be necessary.
More specifically, you can make changes to target certain areas of your health:
Disease management
Treat nutritional risk factors for chronic diseases and degenerative conditions.
Family history
Provide prevention for common genetic diseases within your family history.
High risk
Certain groups are more susceptible to micronutrient deficiencies, such as pregnant women, athletes, and those with gastrointestinal disorders.
Proactive assessment
Get customized prevention methods to maintain micronutrient sufficiency.
Difficult cases
Get an understanding of general complaints that don't seem to have any apparent disease source.
How often should I get a micronutrient test?
The frequency of micronutrient testing depends on several factors, such as age, health status, and dietary habits. However, most health professionals recommend getting micronutrient testing done at least once a year.
Are there any risks associated with micronutrient testing?
Micronutrient testing is a safe and reliable way to assess your vitamin and mineral levels. The test is quick and easy, and there are no risks associated with it.
IV therapy for micronutrient deficiencies
If you are deficient in certain micronutrients, your doctor may recommend intravenous therapy (IV therapy) as a way to correct the deficiency. IV therapy involves injecting micronutrients directly into your bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system and ensuring you get all the nutrients you need, where you need them.
So, if you are looking for a way to improve your health, micronutrient testing is a great option! Talk to your doctor about whether micronutrient testing is right for you.