Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamins & Minerals: What are they and what Do they Do?

Abstract

Alan M. Diamond

Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals found in food that help to nourish and sustain your health. They are essential for your overall well-being. The best way for your body to get what it needs to be balanced is to eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals every day. However, studies consistently show that most Americans' diets are deficient in vitamins and minerals. Adult Americans, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), do not get enough of the following nutrients: Magnesium, fibre, calcium, potassium, Vitamins A, C, D, and E all contain. Try to incorporate more of these nutrients in your daily diet. It’s best to get these nutrients through food, instead of just taking a multivitamin. This is because it is easier for your body to absorb micronutrients through food. Calcium is a mineral that is present in, it is needed for the development of strong bones and teeth in childhood and adolescence. Calcium is necessary to maintain bone mass as an adult. According to the USDA, the average American adult can consume 1,136 milligrammes of calcium per day (based on a 2,000-calorie diet).