Question
Define minor nutrients and what are these
Answers
GPT-4o mini
Minor nutrients, often referred to as micronutrients, are essential substances required by organisms in smaller quantities compared to macronutrients (like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats). Despite being needed in smaller amounts, these nutrients play crucial roles in various physiological functions and overall health.
Micronutrients include:
1. **Vitamins**: Organic compounds that are necessary for various metabolic processes and physiological functions. They are further divided into water-soluble (e.g., Vitamin C, B vitamins) and fat-soluble (e.g., Vitamins A, D, E, K).
2. **Minerals**: Inorganic elements that are essential for several bodily functions. Key minerals include:
- **Trace minerals** such as iron, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and iodine, which are required in microgram to milligram amounts.
- **Major minerals** like calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, and phosphorus, which are needed in larger amounts but are still classified as micronutrients.
Micronutrient deficiency can lead to various health issues, including anemia, weakened immune function, and developmental problems. Hence, a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods is important for obtaining these essential nutrients.
Micronutrients include:
1. **Vitamins**: Organic compounds that are necessary for various metabolic processes and physiological functions. They are further divided into water-soluble (e.g., Vitamin C, B vitamins) and fat-soluble (e.g., Vitamins A, D, E, K).
2. **Minerals**: Inorganic elements that are essential for several bodily functions. Key minerals include:
- **Trace minerals** such as iron, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and iodine, which are required in microgram to milligram amounts.
- **Major minerals** like calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, and phosphorus, which are needed in larger amounts but are still classified as micronutrients.
Micronutrient deficiency can lead to various health issues, including anemia, weakened immune function, and developmental problems. Hence, a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods is important for obtaining these essential nutrients.