ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Micronutrient deficiency

Micronutrients are tiny substances that we need to stay healthy. Think of them like the pieces of a puzzle that make our bodies work properly. Some of these micronutrients include things like vitamins and minerals.

A micronutrient deficiency happens when we don't get enough of one or more of these puzzle pieces. This can happen if we don't eat a balanced diet, or if we don't absorb the micronutrients properly.

When we don't have enough of these important puzzle pieces, our bodies may not work like they should. We might feel weaker, or we might get sick more often. For example, if we don't get enough Vitamin C, we might get scurvy which can cause swollen gums, bruising, and fatigue.

The good news is that there are ways to prevent micronutrient deficiencies. We can make sure we eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. We can also take supplements if we need to.

By keeping our bodies well-fed with all the right puzzle pieces, we can stay healthy and strong!
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