Maintaining optimal health requires a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, and there are ten primary vitamins and minerals that play a critical role in supporting overall bodily function and wellness. Vitamins A, C, and E are powerful antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, while the B-complex vitamins – including B6, B12, and folate – help convert the food we eat into cellular energy.

Calcium and vitamin D work in tandem to keep bones and teeth strong, preventing conditions like osteoporosis, while iron is indispensable for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. Magnesium, meanwhile, is involved in over 300 bodily processes, from regulating blood pressure to supporting a healthy immune system. Zinc is another essential mineral, crucial for wound healing, immune function, and the senses of taste and smell.

Lastly, iodine is necessary for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, which controls metabolism. Ensuring adequate intake of these ten vital nutrients through a diet filled with a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is the foundation for achieving and maintaining optimal health and wellness.