Unfortunately in today’s world it’s harder to get sufficient nutrition in your diet, many of us are not getting the nutrients that we need in order for our body to function at its’ absolute best! All nutrients are extremely important, and many times aid in multiple functions. However, many of us are eating too many calories and not getting enough of certain vital nutrients, therefore are experiencing negative health consequences. If you are experiencing some health issues after trying to eat right, lacking these nutrients may be the culprit! Similarly, if you simply want to optimize your health, here are 5 key nutrients that you are probably not getting enough of, as well as how to incorporate them into your diet!
5 Nutrients That May Be Difficult To Get in Your Diet:
Why this nutrient is important: Iodine is important for the cells to convert food into energy and is responsible for hormone production, especially those of the thyroid. In addition, Iodine helps eliminate toxic metals like fluoride, bromine, lead, cadmium, arsenic, aluminium and mercury from our body. According to Dr. Al Sears, overall Iodine has anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-viral, and anti-cancer properties. It is no wonder then, that with all of the health problems, Iodine is essential, and often missing!
How to add it to your diet: Seaweed, Salmon, Clams, Sardines, Shrimp, Pineapple, Haddock, Eggs, Oysters, Dairy Products
Why this nutrient is important: Magnesium is important for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It helps to maintain normal nerve and muscle function, supports a healthy immune system, keeps the heart beat steady, and helps bones remain strong. It also helps regulate blood glucose levels and aid in the production of energy and protein. Magnesium is also under ongoing research in the role of preventing and managing disorders such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
How to add it to your diet: Spinach, Chard, Pumpkin seeds, Yogurt or Kefir, Almonds, Black Beans, Avocado, Figs, Dark Chocolate, Bananas
Why this nutrient important: Vitamin D is important in absorbing calcium and promoting bone growth, and also in supporting the immune system in fighting off invading bacteria and viruses.
How to add it to your diet: Fatty fish (salmon, tuna), Beef liver, Cheese, Egg yolks, Certain mushrooms, Fortified Milk, Certain orange juices
Why this nutrient is important: Potassium is very important for the proper function of all cells, tissues, and organs in the human body. It is also an electrolyte, a substance that conducts electricity in the body, along with sodium, chloride, calcium, and magnesium. Potassium is crucial to heart function and plays a key role in skeletal and smooth muscle contraction, making it important for normal digestive and muscular function.
How to add it to your diet: Sweet potatoes, Beet greens, Beans, Yogurt, Clams, Prunes, Carrot juice, Meaty fish (halibut, tuna), Winter squash, Bananas
Why this nutrient is important: Fiber is important for normalizing bowel movements and maintaining bowel health. It also lowers cholesterol levels, reduces blood pressure and inflammation, and helps to control blood sugar levels as well as to keep the intestines healthy.
How to add it to your diet: Berries, Vegetables such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts, Root vegetables and tubers, including onions and sweet potatoes, Almonds, Psyllium seed husk, flax, and chia seeds, Green beans, Cauliflower, Beans, Peas