Micronutrient Power

Namaste!

In this world today, we seem to be so focused on getting enough protein, cutting out carbs, and focusing on healthy fat that we end up forgetting the power of whole foods and their micronutrient content. I recently had an opportunity to speak about the power of lifestyle change, and when it came to speaking about nutrition, I focused on the micronutrients.

So, what are micronutrients and why should we shift our mindset to focusing more on that than the big three macronutrients?

Micronutrients are the small molecules found in whole plant foods. They are the powerhouses of nutrition for every cellular function. These nutrients aren’t found on any label, but are inherent in mother nature’s amazing design. The analogy I use to help people understand the micronutrient power of whole foods is the vitamin C content of a whole apple. A whole apple contains 8.4 mg of vitamin C-much less potency than a 500 mg supplement, right? However, because that whole apple is packed with so many other micronutrients, such as quercetin, our bodies naturally turn that 8.4 mg into 1500 mg of vitamin C power to boost our immune system, tame our inflammatory responses, and fuel optimal cellular functioning. An apple a day really can help keep the doctor away!

This is just one example. Every fruit, vegetable, grain, and bean has their own unique micronutrient content that supports our bodily and mental functions. When we strive to eat a rainbow of colors, we are getting a rainbow of micronutrient protection that can help our bodies heal from the inside out. So, the more we can ensure we are getting whole plant-based foods into our bodies, the more we will feel the gradual improvement in how we feel overall.

Another key micronutrient that doesn’t get enough attention is fiber. Majority of Americans are walking around without enough fiber to feed our gut bacteria that helps support digestion, neurotransmitter development( cellular compounds critical for our brain and nervous system,) and slowing down how quickly glucose hits our blood stream. Most Americans get less than 1/3 the amount of fiber in their daily food intake as ultra processed foods, meat, and oils are stripped of not only their fiber content, but majority of all other micronutrient content as well.

So, when we focus on the big 3 macronutrients, we may well be missing out on the real catalysts for inner healing by forgetting the importance of whole grains, beans, fruits, vegetables, and nuts in supporting every single bodily function.

I also like to say that when we focus on getting 5-7 servings of fruits and vegetables in daily, our bodies can handle a small after dinner treat to satisfy the taste buds. When we focus on getting our protein from broccoli, beans, lentils, and whole grains, we are adding so many micronutrients within those protein sources. When we choose whole-food fats such as nuts and seeds, our bodies can better utilize those fats for the fuel we need.

How are you going to fuel your body with micronutrient power so you can

live your best life?

Interested in learning more? Please reach out at:

nartaki@nourishedheartswellness.com