Diminishing minerals in modern diets probably mean fewer micronutrients on your plate.

To achieve a broad-spectrum of micronutrients, you need a wide variety of fruits and vegetables that have been grown in nutrient-dense soils. The standard modern diet makes it harder to ensure nutrient-density and variety on a daily basis.  The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports that more than half the American population is not getting the Daily Recommended Intake (DRI) of essential vitamins and minerals in their diet. 70% of people are cited as being deficient in Vitamin D alone.

Modern farming: The level of calcium in carrots dropped 50% in 35 years. The sharp decline of nutrients in fruits and vegetables may be attributed to a decline of micronutrients in soils, and farming practices that use chemicals and recycled soils.

Over-processed foods: Many foods lining supermarket shelves today go through numerous processes that increase shelf-life and ‘flavor’ but often provide less micronutrient value than fresh produce would have. 

Occasional gut issues inhibit micronutrient absorption.

Studies have shown a direct correlation between the occurrence of occasional issues with digestion and the occurrence of mood swings and increased stress responses. With over 40% of Americans reporting increased occasional digestive complaints, it is not surprising that this is impacting moods, focus and disrupted relationships with food.

Your digestive system needs enzymes and probiotics to function properly. Enzymes break food down into forms that your digestive system can absorb. Probiotics – or good bacteria – and prebiotics – the fibers that feed probiotics – maintain gut balance and promote motility through the small and large intestine. There are multiple factors that can contribute to these digestive aids not functioning optimally:

• Emotional stress
  that causes digestive upset and mood imbalance
• Food allergies
  and hidden intolerances that create undue pressure on your system
• Chemicals
  that interfere with the natural pH balance of your stomach and intestines
• Digestive Changes
  that kill the good bacteria in the gut
• Processed foods
  that require intense metabolizing with little nutritional benefit

In the same way that some people thrive on more protein or carbohydrates in their diet, some people may thrive on higher amounts of micronutrients. In the same way that people will naturally breathe more or less oxygen upon inhaling, some people may naturally absorb more or less nutrients than others. These unique differences between people may impact the absorption and utilization of nutrients in ways that we don’t even yet fully appreciate. Preliminary research suggests:

There may be predisposing genes that impact propensity for mood swings and brain-fog

Neuro-chemical states are often hereditary

Some individuals may thrive on and need higher amounts of certain nutrients for optimal brain health