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Beyond macros: micronutrients, allergies and hydration

Writer's picture: The eatwell dieticiansThe eatwell dieticians

As outlined in an earlier blog, micronutrients are essential chemical compounds that are needed in much smaller quantities than macros. Micronutrients do not actually provide the body with any energy however they are essential for a number of body functions such as macronutrient absorption and proper organ functioning.





Vitamins are organic compounds and can be broken down by heat, air or acid whilst minerals are inorganic compounds that hold on to their chemical structure. There are thirteen essential vitamins that we need as part of a healthy diet and you have probably heard of some of the better-known ones such as Vitamin A, C and D. There are seventeen essential minerals that we also need as part of a healthy diet which includes some well-known minerals like Calcium, Iron, Potassium and Zinc. Because we cannot make these vitamins and minerals in your bodies, we must obtain them from your foods so making sure you are eating a well-balanced and healthy diet that gets the right amount of the micronutrients is key to good health.


Food allergies

Needless to say, not everyone has the same body or digestive system, and so different foods will have different effects on different people. If you have food allergies, then certain food groups will trigger an immune system response that can cause a range of symptoms like inflammation, bloating, sickness and fatigue. Food intolerances tend to be less serious and are present when you struggle to digest certain food groups. And then you may well have additional preferences such as a dislike of certain tastes and textures. All of these food sensitivities can cause an unpleasant experience and make you feel sub-optimal so determining which food groups your body responds well to and which ones it doesn’t is an important and worthwhile process.

Hydration

Finally, you should remember that keeping hydrated is probably even more important that getting the right mix of macro- and micro-nutrients in your diet. Water and other liquids are necessary for pretty much every bodily function including regulating body temperature, delivering nutrients around your body, supporting the immune system, keeping your organs functioning properly and preventing viscosity in your blood and joints So getting enough liquids in your diet is an essential part of eating well and will help with literally every aspect of your well-being from better moods to healthier bodily functions to increased physical performance.

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