Iron, iodine and zinc can be considered as which of the following?

The correct answer is Micronutrients.

Key Points

• Macronutrients in animal nutrition include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are required in large amounts for energy, growth, and maintenance of body functions.
  • Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are also considered macrominerals.
  • Since iron, iodine, and zinc are required in much smaller amounts than these macronutrients, they do not fall into this category.
• Micronutrient
  • Micronutrients are nutrients required in much smaller amounts compared to macronutrients.​
  • Iron (Fe): Iron is a critical component of hemoglobin, which is responsible for oxygen transport in the blood. It is also part of various enzymes and proteins involved in energy production and metabolism. A deficiency of iron can lead to anemia and other health issues.
  • Iodine (I): Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth, and development. A deficiency in iodine can lead to goiter and hypothyroidism, affecting the overall health and metabolic rate of the animal.
  • Zinc (Zn): Zinc is involved in numerous aspects of cellular metabolism, acts as a cofactor for over 300 enzymes, and plays a role in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division. Zinc deficiency can impair growth, immune function, and reproduction.

Additional Information

• Steroid hormone inducers are substances that influence the production or action of steroid hormones (like cortisol, estrogen, testosterone). This category does not apply to iron, iodine, or zinc as these minerals do not directly induce steroid hormone production.