Four renowned doctors decode why meeting nutritional requirements is essential for healthy living. Micronutrients For Premature Aging

Essential Micronutrients During Pregnancy

Dr Rashmi Kahar, Chairperson, FOGSI Practical Obstetrics Committee 2025-27; Chairperson, AMOGS High Risk Pregnancy Committee 2022-26; President, The Obstetrics & Gynaecological Society, Amravati 2024-25; Joint Secretary, Vidarbha ISOPARB; Director, Kharodkar Women’s Care Hospital, Amravati.

Pregnancy is a critical period of growth and development where adequate nutrition is essential. While macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins and fats provide energy and support growth, micronutrients play a vital role in maintaining optimal maternal health and foetal development during pregnancy.

A healthy pregnancy is the foundation of a healthy life for both mother and baby. Many women of childbearing age have dietary deficiencies, particularly in folate, iron and calcium. Good nutrition helps you handle the extra demands on your body as your pregnancy progresses. That’s where nutritional supplements come in.

Key micronutrients to focus on include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA): Supports foetal brain and eye development.

• Vitamin C: Boosts immunity, aids collagen production, and enhances iron absorption.

• Iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12: Crucial for red blood cell formation and preventing neural tube defects. • Iodine and choline: Essential for brain development.

• Vitamin D and calcium: Help build strong bones and teeth.

Micronutrients For Premature Aging

Dr Uday Kulkarni, MD [Skin & VD]; Pure Skin Clinic; Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Trichologist.

Premature aging, marked by early wrinkles, sagging skin and diminished physiological functions, is increasingly common due to modern lifestyle factors. Stress, poor diets, pollution and excessive UV exposure accelerate aging by triggering oxidative stress, which damages cells and increases the risk of age-related diseases like cardiovascular disorders, osteoporosis and neurodegenerative conditions.

Unhealthy diets, sedentary habits and environmental pollutants further exacerbate this trend. The widespread consumption of processed, nutrient-deficient food deprives individuals of essential micronutrients needed for youthful skin, hair and overall health. Urban populations, in particular, face heightened exposure to aging stressors.

Micronutrients play a crucial role in slowing premature aging. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E neutralise free radicals and support collagen synthesis for skin elasticity. Zinc aids wound healing and cell regeneration, while selenium protects against UV damage. B-complex vitamins improve skin hydration and strengthen hair and nails. Omega-3 fatty acids maintain the skin’s lipid barrier, preventing dryness and fine lines. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supports mitochondrial function and reduces oxidative damage.

Combating premature aging requires lifestyle changes and a nutrient-rich diet, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Public awareness and personalised nutrition can help individuals maintain vitality, proving that age is just a number.

Effect Of Oxidative Stress On Thyroid

Dr K D Modi, MD, DM, DNB – Endocrinologist; Senior Consultant, Dr Modi’s Clinic, Hyderabad & CARE Hospital, Nampally, Hyderabad.

Thyroid diseases, including dysfunction and autoimmune disorders, are emerging as a major public health concern, increasingly linked to oxidative stress. As part of the endocrine system, the thyroid relies on reactive oxygen species (ROS) for hormone production. Additionally, thyroid hormones regulate metabolism by influencing mitochondrial activity, leading to increased ROS release.

Due to this dependence on ROS, the thyroid is highly vulnerable to oxidative damage. Excess free radicals can cause structural harm and genomic instability. Reduced glutathione levels are a key marker of oxidative stress, contributing to thyroid hormone deficiencies, inflammation and autoimmune responses. Thyroid diseases are often associated with metabolic conditions like obesity, which further worsens mitochondrial dysfunction and chronic oxidative stress.

The body’s antioxidant defense system helps prevent and repair ROS-induced damage. Key antioxidants such as glutathione, coenzyme Q10, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), retinol, β-carotene, and vitamin E (tocopherol) play a protective role in maintaining thyroid health. Strengthening these defenses through antioxidant-rich nutrition can help prevent chronic thyroid diseases.

Preventive nutrition therapy against redox imbalance is a promising approach. Enrich your daily diet with nutraceuticals rich in antioxidants to support thyroid function and overall well-being.

Impact Of Nutritional Deficiencies On Quality Of Life

Dr (Mrs) Priti S Vyas, MD, DGO, FCPS, FICOG, MSc; Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Sangita Maternity, Surgical & Diagnostic Centre; Hinduja Healthcare, Khar; KLS Memorial Hospital, and Surya Mother & Child Care.

In today’s fast-paced world, declining quality of life is often linked to nutritional deficiencies. The rise of processed foods, stress, sedentary habits and inadequate sun exposure has led to diets lacking essential nutrients, impacting energy levels, immunity and emotional well-being. Over time, these deficiencies diminish overall health and daily functioning.

Each nutrient plays a vital role in maintaining well-being. B-complex vitamins support energy production, nerve function and mental clarity — deficiencies can cause fatigue, irritability and cognitive decline. Vitamin D, essential for bone health, immunity and mood regulation, is linked to osteoporosis and depression when deficient.

Key micronutrients also contribute to vitality. Iron supports oxygen transport; its deficiency leads to anemia, fatigue and weakness. Copper and selenium protect against oxidative stress and boost immunity, while manganese aids bone formation and metabolism. Deficiencies in these micronutrients reduce resilience and physical capacity.

Other essential nutrients include vitamin A, crucial for vision, skin and immunity, and biotin, which promotes healthy hair, skin and nails. Their absence can affect confidence and daily interactions.

Addressing nutritional deficiencies through a balanced diet, fortified foods or supplements can significantly enhance physical health, mental well-being and overall quality of life.