7 Nutrients You may be Missing

Statistics has found that a large number of us suffer from nutritional deficiencies because of an inadequate or inappropriate intake of food. To ensure that you continue living a happy healthy life, take the time to assess your diet to determine if you are lacking any of these essential nutrients:

Omega-3 Fats

These medium and long-chain fatty acids are used by the body to make powerful anti-inflammatory molecules that are beneficial for decreasing inflammation and maintaining heart, brain and joint health. It is difficult to obtain the recommended amount from food alone, so this is where a fish-oil supplement can be a great option. Look for a supplement with high amounts of EPA and DHA in the ingredient list.

Probiotics

The term “probiotic” refers to living microorganisms (mostly bacteria) that provide a health benefit when taken at sufficient levels. Some experts have gone so far as to say that we have a “good bacteria deficiency” that has been linked to a range of long-term conditions including obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, autism, depression, allergies, diabetes, celiac disease and colorectal cancer.

Magnesium

Not having enough magnesium is linked to a number of negative health issues including elevated markers of inflammation which is associated with heart disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a hormone that is produced in the skin in response to direct sunlight, in particular exposure to UV-B rays. In the rainy months it is extremely important to use a vitamin D supplement because there is zero production of this vitamin naturally. Optimal vitamin D levels have been linked to reductions in some types of cancer, shown improvements to the immune system and have even shown benefits for improving and maintaining good mental health.

Calcium

Calcium is the single most inadequately consumed mineral of all ages. It’s hard to get all the calcium we need from our diets. Calcium supplementation in older adults has been shown to reduce bone loss and fracture risk, which are crucial risk factors for osteoporosis.

Fiber

The benefits of fiber include blood sugar regulation, weight maintenance, heart health, and gut health. A number of supplements that provide various forms of soluble and insoluble fiber are available at your local natural health retailer.

Recommended: 25 grams/day for women and 30 to 38 grams/day for men

Vitamin A

Approximately 40 percent of adults do not meet their requirements for vitamin A from food. It is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for the function of the immune system, vision, reproductive health and cell communication. Vitamin A is one of the most common deficiencies around the world, with disastrous consequences.

There are many types of supplements available at different dosages and in different forms including tablets, capsules, or liquid drops. Speak with your health care practitioner about which ones are right for you – and you can also visit a natural health retailer for more information.

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