ABSTRACT
The previous three chapters have dealt with fats, carbohydrates and proteins, which are the energy yielding nutrients in food. They are present in relatively large amounts in the average diet and so are termed collectively the macronutrients. The substances covered in this section do not contribute to the body energy supply and are present in small amounts, milligrams or even microgram quantities, and so are collectively termed the micronutrients. The term micronutrient should strictly be reserved for those substances that are an essential component of the diet, the organic vitamins and the inorganic essential minerals and trace elements. The vitamins and minerals are specifically covered in Chapters 13 and 14. This chapter presents an overview of the general micronutrient adequacy of British adults’ diets and the use of micronutrient supplements is discussed in the light of these observations about micronutrient adequacy (note that the micronutrient adequacy of other lifecycle groups is discussed in Chapter 15). Also discussed in this chapter are several groups of organic substances that are present in micro-quantities in the diet, and although they are not classified as essential nutrients may nevertheless have nutritional significance and are widely taken as dietary supplements. Those listed below are discussed in this chapter.
