Micronutrients (HL)

What are micronutrients?

Nutrients needed in small amounts for health, including vitamins and minerals.

What is the function of vitamins?

Organic compounds vital for health that regulate energy release, metabolism, bone and blood health, immune function, and eyesight.

Source of Vitamins

Fruits, vegetables, fatty fish, fish oil, liver, meat

Forms of vitamins

B, A, C, K, E, D

What are the two groups of vitamins?

Water-soluble (excreted in urine, low toxicity) and fat-soluble (stored in liver/adipose tissue, excessive intake toxic).

What is the main function of minerals?

Inorganic nutrients needed for bone mineralisation, blood oxygen transport, muscle function, energy metabolism, and fluid balance.

Sources of minerals

Meat, fish, milk, dairy products, salt, cereals, fruit, vegetables, water

Name a key function of iron.

Helps with the transport of oxygen for aerobic respiration.

Where is iron found?

Haemoglobin (red blood cells)

What does iron bind with?

Oxygen to form myoglobin

What is the function of calcium?

Builds bones, enables muscle contraction, nerve impulses, and regulates cell membrane permeability.

What role does sodium play in the body?

Electrolyte for nerve transmission, muscle contraction, blood pressure regulation, and nutrient absorption.

Where is sodium found?

Extracellular fluids

How does potassium help the body?

Maintains cell electrical potential, supports nerve/muscle function, aids contraction, and regulates fluid balance.