Iodine: Iodine is an essential micronutrient necessary for proper thyroid function, which regulates metabolism. Good dietary sources of iodine include seaweed, iodized salt, dairy products, and fish.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E functions as a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage. Despite its importance, around 67% of people worldwide do not consume enough vitamin E. Excellent sources of vitamin E include sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, and avocados.
Calcium: Calcium is crucial for bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission. Despite its well-known significance, approximately 66% of individuals do not consume adequate calcium. Good sources of calcium include high-quality dairy products, leafy greens like kale, and sesame seeds.
Iron: Iron deficiency is one of the most prevalent nutrient deficiencies globally, impacting approximately 65% of people. Iron is vital for producing hemoglobin, which transports oxygen throughout the body. Red meat, lentils, spinach, and fortified cereals are good sources of iron.
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Riboflavin plays a key role in energy production and cellular function. Approximately 55% of the global population does not consume enough riboflavin, often due to limited intake of animal products or malabsorption disorders Foods rich in riboflavin include eggs, dairy products, lean meats, and green vegetables such as spinach.
Folate (Vitamin B9): Folate is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and proper brain function. Around 54% of the global population experiences folate deficiency, largely due to low intake of leafy greens, beans, and citrus fruits. Excellent sources of folate include spinach, asparagus, lentils, and fortified grains. Folic acid or methylfolate (especially for those with the MTHFR gene mutation) is available in supplement form.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a crucial antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen synthesis. Despite its importance, approximately 53% of individuals do not consume adequate amounts of vitamin C. Rich sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, and broccoli.
Functional Testing for Micronutrient Levels
Functional testing can provide valuable insights into an individual’s micronutrient status, helping to identify specific deficiencies and guide targeted interventions. Here are some common types of functional tests available:
- Blood Tests: Standard blood tests can measure levels of certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, B12, iron, and folate. These tests help determine if deficiencies exist and can guide dietary or supplementation choices.
- Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): A CMP can provide information about electrolytes, liver function, kidney function, and protein levels, which can indicate overall nutritional status and identify potential deficiencies.
- Micronutrient Testing: Specialized laboratories offer micronutrient testing that assesses a wide range of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. These tests can evaluate both intracellular and extracellular nutrient levels, providing a more comprehensive picture of nutrient status.
- Organic Acids Test (OAT): The OAT measures metabolic byproducts in the urine that can indicate deficiencies in B vitamins, fatty acids, and amino acids. This test can help identify imbalances that affect energy production and overall health.
- Stool Tests: Comprehensive stool testing can assess gut health and microbiome composition, which can impact nutrient absorption. Tests may evaluate levels of beneficial bacteria, the presence of pathogenic organisms, and digestive function.
Micronutrient deficiencies are a pressing global health issue, with billions of people lacking essential vitamins and minerals in their diets. By improving gut health and making thoughtful dietary choices, individuals can enhance their absorption of these crucial nutrients, leading to better overall health and vitality.
Functional testing can further empower individuals by pinpointing specific deficiencies and guiding targeted interventions, ensuring that they receive the nutrients they need to thrive. For those who struggle with absorption or face specific health challenges, targeted supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare professional – like us – can bridge the gap and optimize nutrient intake.
Micronutrient deficiencies are a pressing global health issue, with billions of people lacking essential vitamins and minerals in their diets. By improving gut health and making thoughtful dietary choices, individuals can enhance their absorption of these crucial nutrients, leading to better overall health and vitality.
Functional testing can further empower individuals by pinpointing specific deficiencies and guiding targeted interventions, ensuring that they receive the nutrients they need to thrive. For those who struggle with absorption or face specific health challenges, targeted supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare professional – like us – can bridge the gap and optimize nutrient intake.
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