Micronutrients

Micronutrients support immune defense, bone formation, hormone metabolism, and neurological health. The four critical micronutrients for childhood immunity are zinc, vitamin D, magnesium, and iron. Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals needed in small quantities for metabolism and energy production. Nutrients enable immune function by acting as cofactors for enzymes and cells; they do not perform immune responses themselves. Micronutrient insufficiency is linked to several chronic diseases. Essential micronutrients must come from diet or supplementation because the body cannot synthesize enough of them. Liver is the most micronutrient-dense food available and was historically the first organ consumed by predators. Ferritin measurement is required to assess stored iron; low ferritin impairs sleep maintenance and immune function even without clinical anemia. Red blood cell zinc reflects a 120-day average and is the correct test for zinc status. Standard serum magnesium testing is unreliable; red blood cell magnesium should be used instead.