A Glance at Micronutrients

Micronutrients include the multitude of vitamins and minerals that make up a minuscule part of our diets.

Small, but mighty, we need micronutrients for a variety of functions in the body.

Most people are well versed in macronutrients, which includes protein, fat, and carbohydrate. However, research shows that every vitamin and mineral is equally necessary so we can remain healthy.

What are vitamins and minerals?

Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients that are needed in small quantities via diet. Vitamins come from a wide variety of foods, particularly fruits, vegetables, and animal proteins. Minerals, on the other hand, are present in soil and water, so they must be absorbed by plants or animals to get into our food sources.

There are two categories of vitamins – fat soluble and water soluble. Fat soluble vitamins include D, A, K, and E. Alternatively, water soluble vitamins include the B vitamins and vitamin C.

Minerals include calcium, chloride, chromium, copper, fluoride, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium and zinc.

What do micronutrients do and can they help improve gut health?

We asked our team of Registered Dietitians to tell us about their favorite micronutrients!

Emily Hulse explained of vitamin D, “The majority of my Rachel Scheer Nutrition clients are vitamin D deficient. This can be scary and frustrating, especially for clients who face a wide variety of symptoms with no answers or relief. Often times, vitamin D deficiency can contribute to symptoms like leaky gut, mood disorders, hormone imbalances, and so much more. If it weren’t for our extensive functional lab testing, my clients would have NO IDEA that they’re deficient in this important vitamin!”

Christine Forsythe, Head Coach at Rachel Scheer Nutrition, enjoys educating clients on the B vitamins. She explains that while we all may think of vitamin B12, there are MANY other B vitamins – each with their own functions in the body. B vitamins help create new blood cells, promote healthy detox, convert thyroid hormones, and more.

Megan Motter dove into omega 3’s, which have a wide variety of benefits, including heart health, brain function, fighting inflammation, bone health, healthy skin, and lowering risk of certain types of cancer. More recently, she explained, research has linked these fatty acids to improved mood and sleep if consumed consistently. Omega 3’s come primarily from fatty fish, seeds, and avocado in the diet.

Lastly, Eloise Palmateer divulged her insight on magnesium. Magnesium is a mineral that we’re JUST now understanding the importance of from research. his powerful micronutrient plays a role in hundreds of biochemical pathways essential for energy production, sleep cycle regulation, blood sugar balance, digestive health, mental well-being, cognition, and so much more! Her favorite sources of magnesium includes dark chocolate.

How can I test my micronutrient status?

At Rachel Scheer Nutrition, our team offers extensive functional medicine laboratory testing that uses your blood, urine, and stool. Because of this, we can assess your micronutrient status for vitamin D, B vitamins, folate, and more! By assessing your vitamins and minerals, we can address deficiencies to help you conquer your health.

Have questions? Book a FREE 30 minute call with our team here so we can learn more about your needs and answer your questions about Functional Wellness Coaching!