Long-Term Effects of Good Micronutrients

Micronutrients are found in foods and nutritional supplements. They keep your cells healthy and defend your body against free radicals. According to Geoffrey Harris, MD of the Super Food Nutrition website, micronutrients are the key to optimal health. They prevent your body from breaking-down prematurely and reduce the occurrence of hormone-related diseases. Ample amounts of micronutrients are found in green vegetables, nuts, fresh fruits, seeds and grains.

Enhanced Brain Function

• The brain has billions of cells that rely on the proper oxygen balance to function at their optimal level. Free radicals in the brain evoke chemical reactions that cause irreversible damage to these cells. Long-term consumption of micronutrients maintains the proper oxygen balance in the brain and destroys free radicals, which enhances brain function.

Elimination of Free Radicals

• Micronutrients also destroy free radicals throughout the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, micronutrient deficiencies, such as insufficient vitamin A, iron, zinc and iodine, increases your chances of developing illnesses that may cause death. You can reduce the likelihood of infections, immune system disorders and nervous system disorders by increasing your micronutrient intake.

Cancer, Stroke and Heart Disease

• According to researchers at Cornell University, the micronutrient lutein, found in many foods containing vitamin A, promotes anti-cancer activity. Lutein also decreases the thickness of artery walls, which reduces the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. Micronutrient rich foods have many anti-cancer properties, such as selenium and manganese, that protect the heart and body from these deadly diseases.

Enzymes

• Enzymes are responsible for delivering nutrients and carrying away waste from the body. They purify the blood, break down fats, enhance organ function, improve aging skin, and support the body systems. Some enzymes are naturally produced, but many are found in fruits, vegetables and grains containing micronutrients. According to Enzymedica.com, as you age, your body produces fewer enzymes. Therefore, it is important to eat ample amounts of fruits and vegetables, and to increase your micronutrient consumption.