Micronutrient guide for endurance athletes.

Calories and macros get most of the attention. But vitamins and minerals are the infrastructure everything else runs on. This guide covers what each micronutrient does, why athletes need more of it, and the best food sources to hit your targets.

Minerals

Ironmg

Carries oxygen in the blood. The most common deficiency in endurance athletes.

Magnesiummg

Involved in over 300 reactions including ATP production, muscle contraction and glycogen synthesis.

Calciummg

Supports bone density, muscle contraction and nerve signalling critical for high-impact sports.

Potassiummg

Key electrolyte lost in sweat. Regulates muscle contractions and fluid balance.

Zincmg

Supports immune function, protein synthesis and testosterone regulation.

Sodiummg

The primary electrolyte in sweat. Essential for hydration, performance and preventing hyponatraemia.

Seleniummcg

Powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress generated during hard training.

Phosphorusmg

Critical for ATP synthesis the primary energy currency every muscle cell runs on.

Coppermg

Supports iron metabolism, energy production and antioxidant defence.

Manganesemg

Supports antioxidant defence and bone formation relevant for athletes with high oxidative stress.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Vitamin Dmcg

Supports bone health, immune function and muscle power. Up to 40% of adults are deficient.

Vitamin Amcg

Supports immune function, vision and cell growth. Important for maintaining training consistency.

Vitamin Emg

Fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage during intense training.

Vitamin Kmcg

Essential for bone metabolism and blood clotting. Works with vitamin D to build strong bones.

Water-Soluble Vitamins

Vitamin Cmg

Supports immune function, collagen synthesis and acts as an antioxidant. Needs are higher in athletes.

Vitamin B12mcg

Essential for red blood cell formation and nerve function. Plant-based athletes at high risk.

Folate (B9)mcg

Works with B12 in red blood cell production. Important for oxygen-carrying capacity and cell repair.

Thiamine (B1)mg

Converts carbohydrates to energy. Requirements scale directly with training volume and carb intake.

Riboflavin (B2)mg

Central to energy production from fats and carbohydrates. Exercise increases requirements.

Niacin (B3)mg

Supports energy metabolism and DNA repair. Athletes with high energy turnover have elevated requirements.

Vitamin B6mg

Supports protein metabolism, glycogen breakdown and neurotransmitter production.

Fatty Acids

Omega-3mg

Helps modulate inflammation from training and supports cardiovascular and joint health.

Other

Caffeinemg

One of the most well-researched ergogenic aids in sport. Reduces perceived effort and improves endurance.

Cholinemg

Supports nerve function, fat metabolism and cognitive performance. Often overlooked in athlete nutrition.

Track every micronutrient automatically

MOVE logs all 36 micronutrients from your food and gives you sport-specific context on what your intake means for your training.