Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Micronutrient Deficiencies: Common Micronutrient Shortage in Human

Micronutrient Deficiencies: Common Micronutrient Shortage in Human









Micronutrient Deficiencies


Micronutrients comprise of nutrients that are required in fairly small quantities, throughout life, for effective functioning of the body and performing a wide range of physicological functions. These micronutrients are required in a quantity of less than 100 micrograms per day and cant be produced in the body. These micronutrients include cobalt, iron, chromium, manganese, zinc, selenium, iodine, certain vitamins and organic compounds.










The micronutrient deficiency may result in symptoms depending upon the specific nutritional deficiency.


As per the WHO, the most common syndrome associated with a micronutrient deficiency is anemia, which results from the deficiency of iron.


Common Micronutrient Deficiencies in Humans


Some of the most common micronutrient deficiencies include the following,



  • Iron deficiency: This is associated with anemia or reduced concentration of hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is responsible for transportation of oxygen and nutrients to the body cells. Iron deficiency results in low levels of hemoglobin.



  • Iodine deficiency: Deficiency of iodine is associated with hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by low production of the thyroid hormone. It is manifested in the form of obesity, sluggishness, lethargy, etc

  • Vitamin A deficiency: Deficiency of Vitamin A is associated with visual impairment and skin problems depending upon the severity of the condition

  • Zinc deficiency is also observed in humans


Micronutrient Deficiencies Diseases and Effects


Effects would depend upon the form of the specific micronutrient that is deficient. In general micronutrient deficiency interferes with normal physiological functioning of the body and can be associated with a wide range of health problems.











No comments:

Post a Comment