We all strive to have a healthy and balanced diet. But in today’s world so many people are malnourished and are not getting what their body needs to not survive but Thrive! Below is a list of the most common nutrients that: we don’t get enough of, why we need them and where you can find them. 

POTASSIUM

why?

Potassium is one nutrient we literally cannot live without; it keeps our hearts beating! The body needs potassium to help regulate water balance and to keep the nervous system and our muscles functioning properly.

Where?

bananas, spinach, oranges, carrots

IRON

Why?

We couldn’t live long without iron, It’s an essential protein building block, involved in everything from carrying oxygen through the body to building muscles. Not consuming enough iron could cause: memory loss, muscle loss and difficulties regulating body temperature. It also builds our ferritin levels which helps hair growth.

Where?

cashew nuts, apricots, broccoli, red meat, lentils, fish

MAGNESIUM

Why?

Magnesium is responsible for over 300 chemical reactions in the body. Your cardiovascular system, digestive system, nervous system, muscles, kidneys, liver, hormone-secreting glands and brain all rely on the mineral to accomplish even the most basic tasks.

Where?

halibut, pumpkin seeds, almonds, cashews, spinach, soybeans

CALCIUM

Why?

Calcium is a vital nutrient that helps maintain healthy bones and teeth, assists in nerve transmission, and helps our blood to clot.

When you are a child your bones grow very fast along with the rest of your body which is why teenagers require a lot of calcium in their diet. Once a person is fully grown, your need for high amounts of calcium levels out, but there are periods when calcium needs to increase, such as during pregnancy, lactation, and healing from injuries.

Where?

yoghurt, dark leafy greens, broccoli, milk, figs, cheese

FIBRE

why?

Fibre is a non-digestible carbohydrate that moves throughout our bodies, helping promote digestion. Eating soluble fibre can reduce the risk of a stroke, type 2 diabetes and also help protect our arteries.

 Where?

green vegetables, kale, spinach, broccoli, pears, apples, carrots, raspberries