Vitamins and minerals is necessary to maintain optimum health and wellbeing that requires in a balanced intake. While supplements and vitamin tablets may seem like convenient solutions, it’s essential to understand when your body truly needs them.
In this article, we’ll delve into the factors that can help you determine whether your bodies need two main types of micronutrients: vitamins and minerals. Vitamins are organic compounds, meaning they come from plant or animal sources. Minerals, on the other hand, are inorganic elements found in soil and water and absorbed by plants or consumed by animals.
Both vitamins and minerals play crucial roles in various bodily functions, but they differ in their chemical structure and storage. Vitamins are complex molecules that our bodies can’t produce on their own, so we must obtain them from our diet. Minerals are essential elements that our bodies use to build and maintain tissues, regulate fluids, and carry out various chemical reactions our body requires nutrients from food sources or if supplements are necessary.
Dissolve in fat and can be stored in the body’s liver and fatty tissues for extended periods, ranging from days to years depending on the specific vitamin. This storage capacity allows the body to maintain adequate levels even if dietary intake is not consistent. However, it’s important to note that excessive intake of fat-soluble vitamins can be toxic because the body doesn’t readily get rid of them. Therefore, it’s crucial to consume them within recommended daily amounts and avoid megadoses from supplements unless under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Contents
- 1 Understanding Vitamins and Minerals
- 2 Importance of vitamins and minerals
- 3 Sources of Vitamins and Minerals
- 4 Assessing Your Nutritional Needs
- 5 Benefits of Getting Nutrients from Food
- 6 Drawbacks of Relying Solely on Supplements
- 7 Making Informed Decisions
- 8 Practical Tips for Balanced Nutrition
- 9 Conclusion
- 10 FAQs
Understanding Vitamins and Minerals
What are vitamins and minerals?
Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients required by the body in small amounts to maintain optimal health and function. They are often referred to as micronutrients because they are needed in smaller quantities compared to macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Vitamins are organic compounds that are vital for various physiological processes in the body. They act as cofactors for enzymes, which are proteins that facilitate biochemical reactions necessary for metabolism, growth, and development. Vitamins are classified into two groups: fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and water-soluble vitamins (B vitamins and vitamin C). Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed along with dietary fats and are stored in the body’s fat tissues, while water-soluble vitamins are not stored in large amounts and are excreted in urine when consumed in excess.
Minerals, on the other hand, are inorganic elements that serve as essential components of various bodily structures and functions. They play roles in bone formation, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, fluid balance, and other physiological processes. Minerals are divided into two categories: macrominerals, which are needed in larger amounts (such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, chloride, and sulfur), and trace minerals, which are required in smaller quantities (including iron, zinc, copper, selenium, iodine, manganese, fluoride, chromium, molybdenum, and others).
Both vitamins and minerals are obtained through the diet, primarily from a diverse range of foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, dairy products, lean meats, and seafood. In some cases, fortified foods or dietary supplements may be used to ensure adequate intake, especially when dietary sources are limited or when specific health conditions require supplementation. Ensuring a balanced and varied diet is essential for meeting the body’s vitamin and mineral requirements and maintaining overall health and well-being.
Importance of vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and minerals are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being due to their role in various physiological processes. They act as cofactors or coenzymes for enzymes involved in metabolism, which converts food into energy. B vitamins are essential for carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism, while minerals like magnesium and zinc are required for energy production at the cellular level.
Vitamins and minerals support the immune system by regulating immune cell function, enhancing the body’s ability to fight off infections, and promoting antibody production. They also contribute to bone health by maintaining strong bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis and fractures.
Nerve function is crucial for proper nerve function and communication between nerve cells. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining the myelin sheath of nerve cells, while sodium, potassium, and calcium play roles in nerve impulse transmission. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, which helps stop bleeding when an injury occurs.
Antioxidant defense is another important role of vitamins and minerals. Certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, selenium, and zinc, neutralize harmful free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and aging.
Mood regulation is also vital for mental health and mood stability. Some vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, are involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and regulation.
Reproductive health is also crucial, with folic acid (a form of vitamin B9) essential for fetal development during pregnancy and preventing neural tube defects. Therefore, a balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods is crucial for maintaining optimal health.
Sources of Vitamins and Minerals
Natural sources
Whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins are rich sources of vitamins and minerals.
Whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins, offer a variety of vitamins and minerals in their natural forms. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries, kiwi, mango, pineapple, and bell peppers. Vitamin A is found in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, broccoli, and squash. Leafy greens are rich in vitamin K, folate (Vitamin B9), and potassium. Bananas, oranges, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and leafy greens are rich in potassium.
Nuts and seeds are rich in magnesium, zinc, and selenium. Almonds, cashews, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are good sources of magnesium. Pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, cashews, almonds, and peanuts are rich in zinc. Brazil nuts are a good source of selenium.
Lean proteins include heme iron from lean meats, B vitamins from lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products, and essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and minerals like iodine. Incorporating a variety of these nutrient-rich whole foods into your diet ensures a diverse intake of vitamins and minerals necessary for overall health and well-being.
Supplements and tablets/capsules
Supplements are available in the form of tablets, capsules, or powders and are designed to provide concentrated doses of specific nutrients.
Supplements are products that contain concentrated doses of specific vitamins, minerals, herbs, or other nutrients. They come in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, soft gels, powders, liquids, and gummies, designed to complement dietary intake for individuals who may struggle with meeting their nutritional needs through food alone or have specific health concerns that require additional nutrients.
Supplements are formulated to provide concentrated doses of specific nutrients, allowing individuals to consume larger amounts than they might obtain from food alone. These concentrations are particularly useful for addressing nutritional deficiencies or achieving therapeutic effects. Supplements may target specific nutrients, such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, iron, or probiotics, or contain combinations of nutrients, herbal extracts, or other bioactive compounds to support specific health goals or address health concerns.
Choosing supplements from reputable brands that adhere to good manufacturing practices and undergo quality testing is essential for ensuring potency, purity, and safety. Products should be independently tested by third-party organizations like the US Pharmacopeia (USP), NSF International, or ConsumerLab.com.
Usage of supplements should be part of an overall healthy lifestyle and dietary plan, consulting with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to determine appropriateness and safety. In many countries, including the United States, dietary supplements are regulated as food products rather than drugs, meaning they are not subject to the same rigorous testing and approval process as pharmaceutical drugs. Manufacturers are still responsible for ensuring the safety and labeling accuracy of their products, and regulatory agencies oversee supplement safety and labeling compliance.
Assessing Your Nutritional Needs
Signs of vitamin and mineral deficiency
Vitamin and mineral deficiency can manifest in various ways, including fatigue, a weak immune system, brittle hair and nails, poor wound healing, muscle weakness or cramps, bone health issues, vision problems, and neurological symptoms. Fatigue is caused by decreased oxygen delivery to tissues, while deficiencies in B vitamins like vitamin B12 and folate impair energy production in cells. A weakened immune system may be linked to deficiencies in vitamins A, C, D, E, zinc, and selenium, which play crucial roles in supporting immune function and combating infections.
Brittle hair and nails are often indicative of deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, vitamin C, iron, and zinc. These nutrients are essential for maintaining the health and strength of hair follicles and nail beds. Impaired wound healing may also indicate deficiencies in vitamin C, vitamin K, zinc, or protein. Muscle weakness, cramps, or spasms can result from deficiencies in minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which play critical roles in muscle contraction and relaxation.
Bone health issues can result from deficiencies in vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, which can weaken bones and increase the risk of conditions like osteoporosis. Vision problems may be a sign of vitamin A deficiency, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and retina function. Neurological symptoms may result from deficiencies in certain B vitamins, such as tingling or numbness in hands and feet, difficulty walking, memory problems, and mood disturbances.
In conclusion, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of nutrient deficiencies.
Factors influencing nutritional needs
Nutritional needs are influenced by various factors such as age, gender, lifestyle, and medical conditions. Infancy and childhood require higher amounts of nutrients for brain development, bone growth, and immune function. Adolescence requires increased intake of calcium, iron, and zinc for bone development, muscle growth, and hormonal balance. Adults typically require a balanced intake of vitamins and minerals to maintain overall health and support physiological functions. Older adults may require higher intake of certain nutrients like vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, and protein to support bone health, muscle strength, and cognitive function.
Gender differences in body composition, hormone levels, and metabolic rate can affect nutritional needs. Men may require higher amounts of certain nutrients like protein and minerals to support muscle mass, physical activity, and overall energy expenditure. Women have unique nutritional needs influenced by factors such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
Lifestyles, such as regular physical activity or sports, may increase energy and nutrient requirements for muscle repair, endurance, and recovery. Athletes may need higher intake of carbohydrates, protein, and certain vitamins and minerals to fuel workouts and optimize performance. Vegetarian or vegan diets may require careful planning to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients. Individuals following restrictive diets or those with food allergies or intolerances may also have unique nutritional needs.
Medications can interfere with nutrient absorption, metabolism, or excretion, leading to increased or decreased nutritional needs. Understanding these factors is essential for tailoring dietary recommendations to meet individual requirements and promote optimal health and well-being. Consulting with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian can help assess specific nutritional needs and develop personalized dietary plans to address any deficiencies or health concerns.
Benefits of Getting Nutrients from Food
Bioavailability
Nutrients from whole foods are often more readily absorbed and utilized by the body compared to synthetic forms found in supplements.
Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a nutrient that is absorbed and utilized by the body after consumption. It is influenced by factors such as the form of the nutrient, the presence of other compounds in the food or supplement, and individual factors such as age, digestive health, and metabolic rate.
When comparing nutrients from whole foods to synthetic forms found in supplements, several factors contribute to the generally higher bioavailability of nutrients from whole foods. Complexity and synergy: Nutrients in whole foods are often present in complex matrices along with other bioactive compounds, which can enhance the absorption and utilization of nutrients through synergistic interactions.
Natural forms: Nutrients in whole foods are present in their natural forms, which are typically more bioavailable and easily recognized by the body compared to synthetic forms found in supplements. Digestive factors: Whole foods undergo digestion in the gastrointestinal tract, where nutrients are released gradually and absorbed along with other food components. This gradual release and co-absorption optimize bioavailability.
Food matrix: The combination of nutrients and other components in whole foods can affect nutrient absorption and utilization. Fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, D, E, and K are more efficiently absorbed when consumed with dietary fats, as found in whole foods like nuts, seeds, and oils.
Individual variability: Factors such as age, digestive health, genetics, and metabolic rate can influence an individual’s ability to absorb and utilize nutrients from both whole foods and supplements.
Synergistic effects of nutrients
Whole foods contain a combination of nutrients that work synergistically to promote optimal health and well-being.
The synergistic effects of nutrients in whole foods refer to the interactions between different nutrients found naturally in these foods, which enhance their individual functions and overall health benefits when consumed together. These interactions can result in greater health benefits than what would be achieved by consuming the nutrients individually or in isolation.
The synergistic effects of nutrients in whole foods include enhanced absorption, antioxidant protection, optimized nutrient utilization, balanced nutrient intake, anti-inflammatory effects, and support for body systems. Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based sources like leafy greens and legumes, helping to prevent iron deficiency anemia. Antioxidants in whole foods neutralize harmful free radicals and oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Nutrients in whole foods often work together to optimize their utilization by the body, such as vitamin D enhancing the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, and vitamin K activating proteins involved in bone mineralization. Whole foods provide a balanced combination of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), ensuring the body receives a comprehensive array of nutrients needed for optimal health.
Nutrients in whole foods also have anti-inflammatory effects, working synergistically to reduce inflammation in the body, lowering the risk of chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. By harnessing the synergistic effects of nutrients found naturally in whole foods, individuals can support their health and vitality through their dietary choices.
Drawbacks of Relying Solely on Supplements
Limited nutrient absorption
Synthetic supplements may not provide the same level of nutrient absorption as natural sources due to several factors. These include the form and structure of the nutrients, the lack of complex structures and co-factors found in natural sources, the lack of bioavailability, the presence of digestive factors, the lack of interactions with other nutrients, and the quality and purity of the supplements.
Synthetic nutrients are often produced in isolated forms, lacking the complex structures and co-factors found in natural sources. This can affect the body’s ability to absorb and utilize the nutrients efficiently. Additionally, synthetic supplements may bypass certain digestive processes, potentially affecting absorption. Individual variations in digestive health and function can further impact the absorption of synthetic nutrients.
Natural nutrients often work synergistically with other nutrients, enhancing absorption and utilization. Synthetic supplements may lack these natural interactions, reducing their effectiveness compared to nutrients obtained from whole foods.
In conclusion, synthetic supplements may not be as effectively absorbed and utilized by the body as natural sources. Consuming a balanced diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods is the best way to ensure optimal nutrient intake and absorption. However, in cases where dietary needs cannot be met through food alone or specific health conditions require supplementation, choosing high-quality supplements and consulting with a healthcare professional can help maximize their effectiveness and benefits.
Potential health risks
Excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals through supplements can lead to toxicity, also known as hypervitaminosis or mineral poisoning. Fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K) accumulate in the body’s fat tissues and liver, leading to toxicity symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bone pain, liver damage, and birth defects. High doses of these vitamins can cause hypercalcemia, kidney stones, cardiovascular problems, and damage to organs like the kidneys and heart.
Water-soluble vitamins and minerals like B vitamins and vitamin C are excreted through urine, but excessive intake can overwhelm the body’s excretory mechanisms and lead to toxicity symptoms. These symptoms include flushing, itching, liver damage, gastrointestinal upset, and in severe cases, metabolic disturbances. Iron can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, organ damage, and potentially fatal poisoning in severe cases. Zinc can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, impaired copper absorption leading to anemia and immune system dysfunction. Selenium can cause hair and nail loss, gastrointestinal disturbances, neurological symptoms, and in extreme cases, selenosis with effects on the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.
High doses of certain vitamins and minerals can interact with medications or exacerbate underlying health conditions. For example, vitamin K supplements can interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, while excess calcium intake can increase the risk of kidney stones and interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics.
Individual susceptibility to vitamin and mineral toxicity is influenced by factors such as age, underlying health conditions, genetics, and lifestyle habits. To minimize the risk of vitamin and mineral toxicity, it is crucial to avoid excessive supplementation and focus on a balanced diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods.
Making Informed Decisions
Consulting healthcare professionals
Seeking advice from healthcare professionals can help you determine whether you need supplements and which ones are suitable for you.
Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in making informed decisions about supplement use. They can provide personalized recommendations based on an individual’s health status, medical history, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors, identifying potential nutrient deficiencies or health conditions that may warrant supplementation. They can also assess potential risks associated with supplement use, such as interactions with medications, underlying health conditions, or genetic factors that may affect nutrient metabolism or absorption.
Healthcare professionals have access to current scientific evidence and guidelines regarding supplement use, providing evidence-based guidance to support health and well-being. They can help navigate the vast array of supplement products available and identify those that are safe, effective, and appropriate for your needs. They can also help prevent adverse effects or toxicity resulting from excessive supplement intake by advising on appropriate dosages, frequency of use, and potential side effects.
Healthcare professionals can integrate supplement recommendations into an overall health plan, considering other health aspects such as diet, physical activity, medication use, and preventive care. They can provide comprehensive guidance to support overall health goals and address any underlying health concerns.
Lastly, healthcare professionals can monitor the response to supplementation over time, assessing changes in nutrient status, symptoms, and overall health outcomes. They can make adjustments to the supplement regimen as needed to optimize effectiveness and safety.
In conclusion, consulting healthcare professionals is essential for making informed decisions about supplement use, ensuring safe and effective use, and achieving health goals.
Considering individual factors
Factors such as dietary preferences, lifestyle habits, and existing health conditions should be taken into account when deciding on supplementation.
Individual factors such as dietary preferences, lifestyle habits, and existing health conditions are crucial when deciding whether to use supplements. Dietary preferences can impact nutrient intake and absorption, potentially leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients. Lifestyle habits, such as physical activity, stress, sleep patterns, and exposure to environmental factors, can also influence nutrient needs and metabolism. For instance, individuals with intense physical activity may have higher requirements for certain nutrients like protein, B vitamins, and electrolytes, while chronic stress or inadequate sleep can affect nutrient absorption, utilization, and immune function.
Existing health conditions or medical concerns can also impact nutrient metabolism, absorption, or utilization, leading to increased or decreased requirements for specific nutrients. For example, individuals with gastrointestinal disorders, chronic diseases, and pregnant or breastfeeding women may require supplementation to address deficiencies. Additionally, certain medications can affect nutrient absorption, metabolism, or excretion, leading to nutrient deficiencies or interactions with supplements. Healthcare professionals can evaluate medication use and provide guidance on appropriate supplementation to mitigate potential deficiencies or interactions.
In conclusion, considering these individual factors helps ensure supplement decisions are tailored to meet specific nutrient needs, health goals, and lifestyle preferences. Consulting with healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance and support to help individuals make informed decisions about supplementation based on their individual needs and health goals.
Practical Tips for Balanced Nutrition
Incorporating diverse foods in the diet
Aim to consume a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
A diverse diet is crucial for ensuring optimal nutrient intake and overall health. It includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that support various physiological functions in the body. Whole grains provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, B vitamins, and minerals like iron and magnesium, contributing to energy production, satiety, and digestive health. Lean proteins, such as poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, and nuts, supply essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair, immune function, and hormone synthesis. Healthy fats, like avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish, provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, important for brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation.
Balancing macronutrient intake ensures a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, essential for energy, tissue building, and metabolic processes. Incorporating diverse foods into meals adds variety and enjoyment, preventing food boredom and increasing satisfaction. Consuming plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes nourishes beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy gut microbiome associated with better digestion, immune function, and overall health.
A varied diet reduces the risk of nutrient deficiencies by ensuring all the essential nutrients your body needs. Nutrient deficiencies can lead to various health problems, including fatigue, weakened immune function, poor bone health, and impaired cognitive function. By incorporating diverse foods into your diet, you can achieve a wide range of colors, textures, flavors, and cooking methods in your meals and snacks. Making small changes and trying new foods regularly can help you reap the benefits of a diverse and nutritious diet.
Meal planning for optimal nutrition
Plan your meals to include a variety of nutrient-dense foods that meet your individual nutritional needs.
Meal planning is essential for ensuring optimal nutrition by incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods into your diet. To do this, assess your nutritional needs based on factors like age, gender, activity level, health goals, and any specific dietary requirements or restrictions. Consider consulting with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.
Incorporate a variety of food groups in your meals to ensure a balanced intake of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). Include colorful fruits and vegetables to provide essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, barley, and whole wheat bread or pasta to provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and B vitamins. Include sources of lean proteins such as poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, beans, lentils, and Greek yogurt to support muscle growth and repair, satiety, and metabolic function.
Plan balanced meals that contain a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with fruits or vegetables. Pay attention to portion sizes to ensure appropriate amounts of each food group and control calorie intake. Use tools like measuring cups, food scales, or visual cues to estimate portion sizes and avoid overeating.
Prepare meals and snacks ahead of time to save time and ensure nutritious options are readily available. Be flexible and creative with meal planning, experiment with different recipes, cooking methods, and flavor combinations to keep meals interesting and enjoyable. Incorporate seasonal produce and local ingredients whenever possible for freshness and flavor.
Listen to your body and adjust your meal plan accordingly. By following these guidelines and customizing your meal plan to meet your individual nutritional needs, you can ensure that you are nourishing your body with a variety of nutrient-dense foods to support overall health and well-being.
Conclusion
Supplements can be beneficial in certain situations, but they should not replace a well-rounded diet consisting of whole, nutrient-dense foods. Whole foods provide comprehensive nutrition by offering vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, and other essential nutrients in their natural forms. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports various bodily functions, including energy production, immune function, tissue repair, and hormone regulation. Prioritizing whole foods in your diet promotes overall health and reduces the risk of nutrient deficiencies and chronic diseases.
An individualized approach to nutrition is crucial, as everyone’s needs are unique and influenced by factors such as age, gender, activity level, health status, and dietary preferences. Consulting healthcare professionals can help determine specific nutritional requirements and develop a personalized dietary plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle. Mindful eating and listening to your body’s signals can guide your food choices and help maintain a healthy relationship with food.
Supplements may be warranted in certain situations, such as during pregnancy, for individuals with restricted diets, or to address specific health conditions. However, it is important to use supplements judiciously under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safety and efficacy.
In conclusion, prioritizing whole foods, seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, and practicing mindful eating habits are essential strategies for meeting your nutritional needs and promoting optimal health. By adopting a balanced and individualized approach to nutrition, you can nourish your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive and live a vibrant, healthy life.
FAQs
- What are the most common signs of vitamin deficiency?
Common signs include fatigue, weakness, and frequent illness. - Can I get all the nutrients I need from food alone?
In most cases, a well-balanced diet can provide all essential nutrients. However, supplements may be necessary in certain situations. - Are there any risks associated with excessive vitamin and mineral intake?
Excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals can lead to toxicity and adverse health effects. - How do I know if I should take supplements?
Consultation with a healthcare professional can help determine if supplementation is necessary based on your individual needs and circumstances. - What are some natural ways to boost my nutrient intake?
Consuming a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help ensure adequate nutrient intake from food sources.