If there’s anything that people want to know these days, it is about how they can improve their health by following a healthy diet. And while nutrients such as protein, good fats and carbohydrates get a lot of attention from diets everywhere, there are some nutrients that are just as important but have somehow slipped off the radar somewhere.
According to the USDA, here are a few nutrients that people don’t necessarily pay attention to when they should:
1. Potassium
Despite being one of the key nutrients to keep your blood pressure at healthy levels apart from other benefits, Americans don’t eat as much potassium as they should. One can find sweet potatoes, potatoes and bananas to have high levels of this important nutrient.
2. Magnesium
Alcoholics and the elderly, in particular, have low levels in magnesium and while the lack of this nutrient in the body is linked to diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease and high blood pressure, one should definitely include spinach, nuts, beans and peas regularly for their diet.
3. Vitamin A
Since there are two types of vitamin A: carotenoids and retinol, it’s the former that most Americans don’t get enough of. Carotenoids are found in several fortified cereal, spinach, carrots and sweet potatoes.
4. Vitamin E
Considered as an antioxidant that is absolutely imperative for immunity, healthy skin and better vision, this is one of those all-important nutrients that Americans miss out on. Some foods that contain Vitamin E are peanut butter, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds and almonds.
