Micronutrients Vitamins Micronutrients that help control body processes and help your body release energy to do work. Term to Know Because vitamins and minerals are nutrients needed in tiny amounts, they are known as micronutrients. Vitamins don’t contain calories, so they don’t provide energy.

Micronutrients Vitamins are classified in two ways: Fat-soluble vitamins (including A, D, E, and K) can be stored in the body. Water-soluble vitamins (including C and B complex) are not stored in your body.

Micronutrients Antioxidant Substances that protect body cells, including those of the immune system, from damage. Term to Know Some vitamins and minerals exhibit antioxidant properties. They protect cells from injury and reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and premature aging.

Micronutrients Minerals Substances that the body cannot manufacture but that are needed for forming healthy bones and teeth and for regulating many vital body processes. Term to Know Minerals such as calcium, potassium, sodium, and iron, help your body function. Like vitamins, minerals do not contain calories or supply your body with energy.

Micronutrients Calcium, potassium, and sodium are minerals that are classified as electrolytes. Electrolytes help maintain normal heart rhythm and control the body’s fluid balance.

Water Drinking water is essential for these reasons: It regulates body temperature. It carries nutrients to cells. It aids in digestion and elimination. It is key to many bodily chemical reactions.

Health-promoting substances found in plant foods. Phytonutrients Phytonutrients Health-promoting substances found in plant foods. Term to Know A simple plant-based food may contain several hundred phytonutrients. Includes beta carotene and lutein.

A nonfood form of one or more nutrients. Dietary Supplements Dietary supplement A nonfood form of one or more nutrients. Term to Know Vitamins and minerals are available in dietary supplement form.

Food Sources for Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin B12 – fortified milk, eggs, fortified breakfast cereals, sardines, salmon Calcium – dairy products, leafy vegetables, canned fish with soft edible bones Vitamin C – citrus fruits, cantaloupe, tomatoes Vitamin D – milk, cheese, spinach, eggs, beef liver Iron – meat, shellfish, legumes, peanuts, dried fruit, liver