Our bodies need both vitamins and minerals for healthy development and disease prevention. They are usually referred to as micronutrients, and we get them through our diet¹. However, sometimes eating healthy whole foods isn't enough as GMO and lab-grown foods decrease nutrient density². Also, your gut micro-biome plays a big role in the amount of nutrients you captivate, as this is how the majority of them are absorbed³. If you have leaky gut or bad bacteria overgrowth, you will have a much harder time absorbing nutrients⁴. On top of that, certain medications like acid blockers, antibiotics, and other health issues can also impair absorption⁵.

Here is an image describing the digestive process:

Most nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine by finger-like profusions called villis, which increase surface area to capture the nutrients as they are being moved through your digestive tract⁶. If your villis are impaired, which could be caused by a multitude of reasons such as intolerances or medications, this can severely affect your nutrient absorption. For me, Celiac Disease caused my immune system to attack my small intestine, resulting in malnutrition for years. I will explain this in a further lesson.

Here is a picture description of the small intestine lining:

It is important that these issues are first addressed, and that you heal your gut wall if this is an issue, or else you won't be able to absorb the nutrients you are fed. In further lessons I will be giving tips on how to do this.

A lack of nutrients can cause many health issues in consequence such as defective growth, digestive issues, weakened immune system, muscle cramps, low energy, low mood, etc.

Now, let's look at the symptoms of an unhealthy gut flora⁷.

• Upset Stomach
• Food Intolerances
• Fatigue
• Depression/Anxiety
• Autoimmune Conditions
• Weight Change

My first suggestion would be to get a hair tissue mineral analysis test, performed by a health practitioner. This test will indicate if you are deficient in any vitamins or minerals, so you have a clear idea of what you need to supplement. At the bottom, I will link up a site where you can also purchase one online.

However, food is always the best source for these supplements - the natural remedy. Throughout this platform you will find many healthy alternative ideas to get more nutrients into your system and improve gut health.

I will also review and explain different supplements in further lessons so you have a better understanding of their purpose and importance.

Links:

• Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (Link)