A balanced and diversified diet remains the basis for regaining a good nutritional status. However, in some situations, dietary intakes do not fully meet personal needs. Food supplements are there to help optimize food intake.
The different micronutrients
Unlike macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, proteins), micronutrients do not provide energy. They are nevertheless indispensable to life. Guarantors of equilibrium, they must be provided in defined quantities, which vary according to the individual (men, women, children, seniors, pregnant women, etc.), known as "recommended intakes".
Micronutrients are classified into 4 families:
They can fight against aging through cell renewal. These substances are essential to the body. Indeed, a vitamin deficiency can cause various problems including a decrease in immune functions, and promote the appearance (age-related) of processes such as osteoporosis, atherosclerosis or cancers. The diet must be sufficiently rich in micronutrients (but not excessively), and varied.
2) Minerals and trace elements
These are iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, selenium, zinc, fluorine ...
They are necessary for all organs, have vital and vital functions at the cellular level.
3) Essential fatty acids
A significant consumption of fish rich in omega 3 (essential fatty acids) has important virtues for our health. Omega 3 and 6 are unsaturated fatty acids, and play a role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease (high blood pressure, heart attack), Alzheimer's disease, inflammation and in the maintenance of good immunity.
4) Amino acids
These are the proteins present in our body: muscles, tissues, enzymes, hormones, blood ... There are 24 of which 8 are said to be essential because they are not manufactured by the body. They are found in animal products, legumes and cereals. These are tryptophan, lysine, taurine, cystine ...
Good to know: foods rich in vitamins
Read also :
> The food balance: what is it?
> 18 tips for a balanced diet
> The role of trace elements
> Saturated fatty acids
> Cook by refueling with vitamins