Question

Explain the difference between micronutrients and macronutrients. What role do micronutrients play in maintaining and optimizing health and performance? What are common micronutrient deficiencies seen in athletes?

Answer 1

1.

MACRONUTRIENTS	MICRONUTRIENTS
These are the nutrients required by the body in the large quantities.	These are the nutrients required by the body in small or trace amount.
They are also called as large elements.	They are also called as trace elements.
. Their main function is to provide energy	Their main function is to protect the body from various diseases.
When taken in large quantities than the required ones then causes obesity and cardiovascular diseases.	When taken more than recommended can cause acute poisoning. Because they are required in trace amount more quantities of them are toxic to the body.
They includes carbohydrate, proteins and fats	They include vitamins, mineral and trace elements like molybdenum, manganese, fluorides, iron, chromium, copper, zinc, iodine, selenium etc.

2. Synthesis of tissues and tissue repair, energy production to some extents, haemoglobin synthesis, bone health maintenance, adequate immune function, and protection of body against oxidative damage are the main role or functions of micronutrients. Micro-nutrients also contribute to body growth and disease prevention. In addition to this trace elements removes toxins, prevent cell damage, produces antioxidants, induces formation of RBCs, maintain bones, blood vessels and nerves, helps in metabolism and transfer of oxygen to the lungs.

Deficiencies seen in athletes :-
1.vitamin D :- it is also called as calciferol. It plays important role in calcium metabolism required for bones. Its deficiency can lead to softened bones spontaneous fractures and osteomalacia.
2. Iron :- mainly in the female athletes the deficiency is seen. It plays role in transferring the oxygen to the lungs and metabolism of proteins and enzymes. Its deficiency can cause anaemia, fatigue and poor performance.
3. Zinc :- zinc is very important for cell division in immunity and wound healing process. Its deficiency causes growth retardation, low immunity.
4. vitamin B1 :- it is also known as thiamine. It helps in production of energy conduction of nerve impulses and muscle contraction. Also important for pyruvate metabolism. Deficiency can cause rapid heart rate, swelling, weakness, fatigue and gastro-intenstinal problems.
5. vitamin B2 :- it is called known as riboflavin. It helps in breaking down of fats, proteins and carbohydrates which is very important for energy production. Its deficiency can cause fatigue, cracks, fissures, loss of appetite.
6. vitamin B6 :- it is called as pyridoxin and helps in food metabolism, production of RBCs and neurotransmitters. Deficiency can cause difficulty in muscle movement, irritability, dermatitis, cheilosis, neural disorders etc.