A Quick Guide to Micronutrients and Water.

We’ve talked about macronutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, and fat in the last article. Today, it’s about vitamins, minerals and water.

Vitamins and minerals are the micronutrients that support your body functions. You only need them in small amounts, but they’re still vital to your health and wellbeing.

Check out the benefit with these strategies:

#1 Understand vitamins and minerals.

There are 13 essential vitamins and a wide range of minerals that you need to stay fit. Vitamins help your body use other nutrients and make hormones. Minerals are especially important for your central nervous system and skeleton.

#2 Seek variety.

Common signs of vitamin and mineral deficiencies include hair loss and slow healing. Most symptoms can be treated quickly by changing your diet.

#3 Consider supplements.

For most adults, food is superior to supplements. However, it’s important to follow your doctor's recommendations if you’re on a restricted diet.

#4 Water

There’s a little difference of opinion when it comes to water. Some experts call it a macronutrient because you need a lot of it. Others say it’s a micronutrient because it doesn’t provide energy directly. You may side with those who put it in a separate category of its own. You could consider these tips to add more water to your diet:

(1) Adopt new habits.

Maybe you have trouble remembering to drink enough water. Try creating triggers like having a glass when you wake up or make a phone call.

(2) Add flavor.

If the taste of plain water doesn’t appeal to you, liven it up. Infuse it with fresh basil or a few crushed cranberries.

(3) Chew it.

Water from solid foods counts too. For meals and snacks with a high water content, use ingredients like cucumbers, celery, strawberries, cauliflower, and cottage cheese.

(4) Avoid dehydration.

You may have heard that you can only live about 3 days without water. Even under less extreme conditions, dehydration can affect your performance. If you feel fatigued or have trouble concentrating, you may need to drink more.

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Proper nutrition can be simple. Eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and other whole foods is usually all you need to give your body adequate amounts of the 6 essential nutrients.

If you have medical conditions or other concerns, your doctor or dietician can also help you in understanding your individual needs.