Nutrients (Vitamins and Minerals) – Are You Getting What You Need?
We all know (now) that nutrients such as vitamins and minerals are vital to our health. A deficiency in any one of the many vitamins and minerals can cause us to have health issues.
Originally (a long time ago), it was thought that if you ate enough food to keep hunger at bay, you’d be healthy. But that wasn’t always true.
For example, sailors on long voyages often got scurvy, even if they sailed on ships which offered enough food with protein and calories.
But when sailors consumed citrus fruits, they no longer got scurvy. And so it was realized that food must contain other important substances.
Even Today, we Are Deficient!
You’d think that nowadays, with modern medicine and an abundance of food in many countries, people would consume enough nutrients. But that’s not the case.
Sadly, thanks to a poor diet, many Americans suffer from nutrient deficiencies. According to the USDA,
- 68% of Americans have a calcium deficiency,
- 80% are deficient in Vitamin B6,
- 75% in magnesium,
- and 90% in chromium.
How Would You Know You’ve Got Deficiencies?
Of course, you could ask your doctor for a whole pile of tests to check it all out. But start by looking at the questions below.
Do You Eat Low-Fat Food?
Fat-free and low-foods are very popular in the supermarkets – but they can cause health problems.
These food items are heavily processed (to remove the fat) and then artificial (and sometimes unhealthy) alternatives are added for flavor and texture. Aspartame is a good example of such as additive – it’s linked to several health issues.
It certainly isn’t green and eco friendly.
As if the heavy processing wasn’t bad enough, if you don’t eat enough dietary fat, you cannot properly absorb the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
It’s better to eat a small amount of full-fat, more natural products.
Do You Drink Enough Water?
As well as fat-soluble vitamins, there are also water-soluble vitamins.
Water-soluble vitamins include B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, Vitamins H, and C. Drink plenty of water to make sure you can properly absorb these important nutrients.
What About Minerals?
If you eat healthy food, it’s easier for your body to absorb vital minerals. For example, oxalate (found in rhubarb and spinach), and phytates (located in grains) help you absorb what you need.
Supplements
Many people rely on supplements to get vitamins and minerals – it’s a huge business worldwide.
But it’s always better to get the nutrients you need from fresh food.
You have no control over what is contained in supplements, and incorrect dosages can cause serious health problems. For example, if you’re on blood thinners, you should avoid taking Vitamin K supplements without first speaking to your doctor. But there’s no problem with eating kale, spring onions, broccoli and other vegetables which are natural sources of this vitamin!
Sometimes, however, supplements may be necessary. For example, vitamin D comes from the sun, and if you live in a climate where there’s a long, dark winter, then a supplement may be appropriate.
If you do use a supplement, look for one that offers nutrients that were derived from whole foods.
Before starting a supplement regime, discuss it with your doctor as some vitamins can create problems with certain health conditions.
Summary
Vitamins play an important role in normalizing your bodily functions. It is vitally important to get an adequate intake in order to prevent deficiencies, as well as promoting optimal health.
The best way to ensure you are getting the right balance of vitamins and minerals is to eat a balanced diet. Introduce a variety of foods for health – and to keep things interesting!
Please Share this post – it’s easy – sharing buttons below and right!
Do you enjoy juices? What about green juices? Let me know in the comments below.
Warm regards,
P.S. Don’t forget to download your free “Juicing for Fitness” report here.
Related:
- 10 fresh juice tips – for the most nutrition!
- What carrot juice can do for you today
[…] Here are some questions to help you to find out – and a solution. […]