Micronutrient Deficiencies and Health

Vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients play critical roles in a variety of highly complex and integrated cellular processes in human biochemistry. Consistent overconsumption of calorie-rich, processed food can lead to chronic nutrient deficiencies which can lead to a breakdown of biological processes and ultimately serious health disorders.

Nutrient imbalances create a metabolic burden on all organ systems, with the greatest impact on those systems which regulate metabolic equilibrium. Research has shown that continued nutrient deficiencies can accumulate over time and can lead directly to age-related diseases such as cancer, cognitive decline, and immune dysfunction.

The body’s nutritional demands further increase when experiencing acute and chronic illnesses. These requirements can increase 10 to 100 times as much as usual requirements. Proper nutrient support is critical to reducing the potential for permanent damage from the pathophysiological processes associated with the disease.

Source: Integrative and Functional Medical Nutrition Therapy, Noland et al, 2020.