5 Things Big Pharma Doesn't Want You to Know About Micronutrients

This week on the Harmony With Food Radio Show, I talked about micronutrients and dove into 5 which aren't often tested by your doctor. Learn which ones they are, what side effects you may have if you're depleted, and what foods to eat to get more nutrients.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is in the fat-soluble vitamin group and it includes retinol, retinoic acid, and several Vitamin A carotenoids, among which betaine is the most important.

Effects of Depleted Vitamin A

When someone is low in Vitamin A it can result in:

• Night blindness

• Impaired immunity

• Impaired wound healing

• Increased risk of infection

• Thyroid disorders

• Keratosis, a skin disorder

Food Sources of Vitamin A

Here's where you can find more Vitamin A:

• Meat: turkey, beef, pork, fish, and chicken

• Orange fruits and vegetables: butternut squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, carrots, canteloupe, and mangoes.

• Green vegetables: dandelion greens, spinach, broccoli, and kale.

• Fortified grains

Vitamin B6

B6 is very important in the metabolism of certain enzymes and protein. It also aids in the absorption of B12, which is more commonly checked than B6. It is involved in the methylation cycle and clearance of homocysteine as well as folate.

Effects of Depleted Vitamin B6

If you're depleted in Vitamin B6, you may have the following side effects:

• A build-up protein (amyloidosis)

• Growth failure

• Immune dysfunction

• Microcytic anemia, which means your red blood cells are too small

• Depression, fatigue, and anxiety

Pregnancy, birth control, amphetamines, and smoking can all affect your B6 levels.

Sources of B6

Here's where you can get more B6:

• Legumes - including beans, lentils, and soybeans

• Whole grains

• Nuts and seeds

• Non-citrus fruits

• Beef and poultry

• Fish

• Liver

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a very important vitamin that is frequently checked by doctors, but did you know there's more than one type of Vitamin D? You need both Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3, but more often than not doctors are only checking D2.

Conditions Associated with Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D is well-researched and has been associated with the following disorders:

• Alzheimer's Disease

• Ashtma

• Autism

• Cancer

• Cavities

• Colds & flu

• Cystic fibrosis

• Dementia

• Depression

• Diabetes Type 1 & 2

• Eczema

• Psoriasis

• Hearing Loss

• Heart Disease

• Hypertension

• Infertility

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Sources of Vitamin D

Vitamin D can be increased through sun exposure. If you live in a cold climate it is often recommended that you supplement with Vitamin D, but I always recommend getting tested first to make sure you are taking the right amount! You can also get more Vitamin D through the following sources:

• Dairy products

• Salmon

• Mackerel

• Shrimp

• Mushrooms

• Baker's Yeast

• Egg yolks

Inositol

Inositol derivatives are used in the cellular signaling process after the insulin receptor is activated. It is crucial for the development of peripheral nerves and it helps move fats out of the liver. It promotes the production of lecithin and helps prevent plaque buildup.

Signs of Inositol Depletion

Here are some signs you don't have enough inositol:

• Depression and anxiety

• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

• Diabetes

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Obesity

Sources of Inositol

Inositol can be found in the following foods:

• Cantaloupe

• Oranges

• Prunes

• Navy beans

• Grapefruit

• Limes

• Blackberries

• Kiwi

• Green beans

What is your nutrient status?

Ready to go beyond Vitamin D and get a full picture of your health? Schedule a free call with me to talk about micronutrient testing, which tests over 35 nutrients. Once you get your results, I'll create a customized food supplement plan for you to get you back to feeling your best.

SCHEDULE A FREE CALL WITH MEG

Episode Transcript