You need a lot of input to keep your body running smoothly. Vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and a wide range of other nutrients work in a complex dance to ensure normal functioning and promote overall health. But even well-nourished Americans may be missing key nutrients:an estimated 31 percent of the U.S. population is at risk for at least one vitamin deficiency, and some surveys show most Americans are lacking in calcium, magnesium and vitamin A, C, D and E.
And even if you get the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of most nutrients, that may not be enough for you to thrive. The RDA marks the level of a nutrient required to prevent acute symptoms, but may not be enough to promote optimal health. Plus, RDAs don’t account for individual needs—people with increased activity level, chronic health conditions, exposure to environmental pollutants or elevated levels of stress may require a higher nutrient intake beyond the minimum RDAs.
Ready to move from survive, into thrive? Meet—and exceed—your health and wellness goals, with these ten essential nutrients.
