Iron is required to help prevent iron deficiency, known as anaemia.
Iron requirements are high for females who are menstruating, and therefore at greater risk of anaemia.
B group vitamins
These help to release energy from food.
The B vitamin known as folate is required to make red blood cells.
Sodium
It is recommended that we take no more than 6g of sodium per day.
Adults are at greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD)Cardiovascular disease (CVD) develops when the blood supply to the muscles and tissues of the heart becomes obstructed by a build-up of cholesterol. and high blood pressure if they consume too much sodium.
Calcium
Calcium is required:
to reach peak bone mass – the stage in life when bones are at their strongest (for most adults this is around the age of 30)
for maintenance of strong bones and teeth
to help prevent osteoporosis in later life
Vitamin D
Vitamin D aids the absorption of calcium into bones and teeth.