Final answer:
To receive all necessary micronutrients, a balanced diet including a variety of foods from all five food groups is essential. Micronutrients, consisting of vitamins and minerals, are needed in small amounts and play critical roles in the body. Some micronutrients must be consumed regularly, as the body cannot store them for long periods.
Step-by-step explanation:
To receive all the necessary micronutrients you need, it is important to consume a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods. Micronutrients, which include vitamins and minerals, are essential nutrients that the body needs in small quantities to function properly. Unlike macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, micronutrients do not provide energy but are vital for metabolism, immune function, bone health, and more.
While the body can store some micronutrients, others such as vitamin C and many B vitamins are water-soluble and need to be consumed regularly. To ensure adequate intake of all micronutrients, it's recommended to eat diverse foods from all five food groups, namely fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy. This approach will likely cover different micronutrients and is preferable to relying solely on supplements.
Some groups of people, like athletic individuals or women who menstruate, may have different micronutrient needs. In these cases, a specially tailored diet or a daily multivitamin may be beneficial. However, the mantra 'food first, supplements second' should guide your nutritional choices, encouraging consumption of nutrient-rich foods as the primary source of essential micronutrients.