Micronutrients

What are micronutrients?

Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals that the body needs in smaller amounts.

Type of micronutrients
  • Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water. They are usually not stored in the body. They help produce energy and prevent cells from getting hurt.
  • Fat-soluble vitamins dissolve in fat. They are stored in the liver and fatty tissue. They help with vision, immune system, and fight inflammation.
  • Microminerals
  • Trace minerals needed in smaller amounts.
Food sources of vitamins and minerals
Water-soluble vitamins
  • Whole grains
  • Eggs
  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Fish
  • Citrus fruits
  • Bell peppers
Fat-soluble vitamins
  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Almonds
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Milk
  • Soybeans
Microminerals
  • Dairy products
  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Black beans
  • Lentils
  • Banana
  • Fish
Trace minerals
  • Spinach
  • Pecans
  • Peanuts
  • Cashews
  • Oysters
  1. Micronutrient Facts. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/micronutrient-malnutrition/micronutrients/index.html Updated December 3, 2020. Accessed December 5, 2020.
  2. The Large Role Of Micronutrients. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-larger-role-of-micronutrients. Published July 2019. Accessed December 9, 2020.