Micronutrients
Micronutrients, as the name implies, are nutrients that we need in small quantities. But they are essential for life, and without them there are serious consequences to health. In fact, the British naval fleet was dying of Vitamin C deficiency until it was discovered that eating lemons and oranges could cure it. This discovery made the British navy very strong and capable of resisting Napoleon’s attempts at invading Britain.
There are about 30-40 essential micronutrients. These include vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and amino acids. Micronutrients are essential because the human body cannot manufacture them in sufficient quantities on its own. True deficiencies are rare in rich countries these days because of the availability of fortified foods, but deficiencies are still prevalent in low-income countries. However, an absence of a deficiency does not mean that that the levels of micronutrients are sufficient. This insufficiency can have long-term consequences.
When there is a shortage of micronutrients, the nutrients are used for functions that are essential for short-term survival over those functions that are less essential. For example, Vitamin K is required for blood clotting and also to prevent calcification of arteries. Since preventing blood loss is a more immediate need, vitamin K will be used by clotting proteins first, and only when that requirement is fulfilled will it deal with its other functions. This way the proteins that are responsible for longer lifespan do not get the micronutrient. This is one of the ways by which insidious damage accumulates and shows up later in the form of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer and other diseases of aging.
So how can you make sure you’re fulfilling your nutrition needs? The best way to get micronutrients is through a well-rounded diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, lean sources of proteins, along with healthy fats from nuts and some oils. Micronutrients are more bioavailable from foods than from supplements (it’s a more tasty way to get them too). However, supplements have their place too. For example, we usually don’t spend enough time in the sun to synthesize Vitamin D. The majority of the population worldwide is Vitamin D deficient. In such cases, supplements are needed because Vitamin D is essential for vast array of functions inside the body. It is also a good idea to get our vitamin and mineral levels tested on a regular basis.
Our products at Zabardastreats are loaded with micronutrients. Moringa is a storehouse of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, C, E and K and Iron, Calcium, Potassium, Copper, Zinc and Magnesium. Dates are loaded with fiber and Iron. The nuts and seeds in our products are a good source of healthy fats, fiber and minerals. In fact, we design our products with health benefits in mind. So try our products to get your micronutrient fix!