Nutrients are substances we get from food that our bodies need in order to function and stay healthy.
Without the right nutrients we wouldn’t have any energy, or be able to breathe. Our bones and muscles would not work, and nor would our brain. So all in all, pretty vital!
Nutrients are categorised into macronutrients and micronutrients. In the macronutrients category we have protein, carbohydrates and fats, because we need them in larger amounts.
Micronutrients are “micro” because we need them in smaller quantities – but that doesn’t mean they’re any less important. This category is made of vitamins and minerals.
Dietary minerals are substances that contribute to the wellbeing and proper functioning of our body. Different minerals have different roles, such as maintaining the health of our bones and teeth, contributing to the normal function of the nervous system, making sure oxygen reaches every cell, metabolising energy, and more.
Everyone has different requirements in terms of how much of these minerals they need on a daily basis, depending on their age, gender and state of health.