Why take micronutrient supplements?

Team of Quest® 

Micronutrients are required in small amounts by the body to support normal functioning and help regulate many physiological processes. They include vitamins and minerals. Vitamins are organic substances, meaning they contain carbon and can be classified as either fat-soluble or water-soluble. Minerals are inorganic substances, meaning they do not contain carbon and can be classified according to the body’s requirement for them: major or trace.  

Today, many North Americans take supplements to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need, whether they are eating well or not. While blatant deficiencies resulting in illnesses such as scurvy (lack of vitamin C) or beriberi (lack of vitamin B1) are rare, mild deficiencies are common and can lead to vague symptoms of fatigue, lack of initiative, and poor concentration.

A number of causes contribute to these mild deficiencies. Erratic eating habits are one of the most common culprits in today’s hectic lifestyles. Efficient digestion and assimilation of nutrients tend to decline as we age, which can result in deficiencies of many essential nutrients.  

Processing, cooking, and preserving food leads to nutrient depletion. Many fruits and vegetables are genetically bred to improve yields, look appealing, and withstand a long transport; taste and nutritional value become secondary. Nutrient-depleted soil is also unable to provide fruits and vegetables with the high amounts of vitamins and minerals they contained in the pre-industrial age.

Food supplements also compensate for individual nutrient requirements. Pregnant women typically need more folate, iron, and other nutrients. Strict vegetarians often need additional vitamin B12, and possibly calcium, iron, and zinc. Older people tend to lack vitamins B6, B12, folate, and calcium. Menopausal women dealing with the symptoms of osteoporosis need more minerals to supplement those lost through bone depletion. Fitness enthusiasts also require a variety of nutrients of maintain strength and stamina.

Stress has a tremendous impact on the function of the entire body, affecting heart rate, hormonal output, and metabolism. As a result, essential nutrients are used up more quickly than usual. Environmental pollutants in our air, water, and food also contribute to an accumulation of toxins that our bodies must work to eliminate. Supplements may provide adequate essential nutrients to protect against the impact of toxins and to help the body detoxify.