Let’s be real—between work, errands, workouts (if we’re lucky), and whatever happens to be trending on TikTok, most of us aren’t stopping to ask: “Am I getting enough magnesium today?”
But here’s the thing: even if you're eating “pretty healthy,” chances are you're still missing out on some essential nutrients your body needs to thrive. According to the CDC, a large percentage of Americans fall short on key vitamins and minerals that support immune health, energy, hydration, metabolism, and even mood (1).
In this blog, we’ll break down 13 often-overlooked nutrients—aka The Power 13—and give you real-life ways to get more of them, so you can feel better, move better, and recover faster.
🌿 1. Magnesium – The Stress and Sleep Mineral
Magnesium plays a key role in over 300 biochemical reactions, including muscle function, sleep regulation, and nerve health. Yet, studies show that nearly 50% of people don’t get enough (2).
Fix it: Snack on almonds, spinach, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate. Consider a magnesium glycinate supplement for better absorption—especially if you experience muscle cramps or poor sleep.
💧 2. Potassium – For Muscle, Heart, and Hydration
Potassium is essential for heart health, muscle function, and electrolyte balance. A low-potassium diet can increase the risk of hypertension and fatigue.
Fix it: Eat bananas, sweet potatoes, beans, and avocados. After workouts or sauna sessions, try a hydration mix like HyBurst, which contains potassium to help replenish what’s lost through sweat.
🍊 3. Vitamin C – Your Immune System’s Bestie
We all know vitamin C helps fight colds, but it's also a powerful antioxidant that supports skin health, iron absorption, and tissue repair.
Fix it: Include citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, and broccoli in your meals. When traveling or after intense activity, boost your intake with a vitamin C-rich hydration drink like HyBurst.
🧠 4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids – For Brain and Mood
Omega-3s help reduce inflammation, support cognitive function, and may even reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression (3).
Fix it: Eat fatty fish like salmon and sardines at least twice a week. If you're plant-based, consider algae oil or flaxseed oil supplements.
🦴 5. Vitamin D – The Sunshine Nutrient
Essential for bone health, immune support, and mood regulation, vitamin D is one of the most common deficiencies—especially for people who spend most of the day indoors.
Fix it: Get 15–20 minutes of sunlight daily (when possible), eat fortified foods, or take a high-quality D3 supplement.
🛡️ 6. Zinc – For Immunity and Healing
Zinc plays a major role in immune function, wound healing, and inflammation control. Your body can’t store it, so regular intake is key.
Fix it: Eat shellfish, beans, lentils, and whole grains. If you're feeling run-down, a little extra zinc via supplements or fortified hydration options can support faster recovery.
🧬 7. Iron – For Energy and Oxygen Flow
Iron helps carry oxygen through your blood. Low iron = fatigue, shortness of breath, and poor focus. Women of menstruating age are especially at risk of deficiency.
Fix it: Incorporate lentils, spinach, beef, and tofu. Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C for better absorption.
🥬 8. Vitamin K – For Bone and Heart Health
Vitamin K isn’t just for blood clotting—it helps maintain strong bones and reduce calcium buildup in arteries.
Fix it: Leafy greens like kale, collard greens, and Brussels sprouts are rich in K1. Fermented foods like natto contain K2.
🩸 9. B12 – For Red Blood Cells and Brain Function
Vitamin B12 supports energy production, red blood cell formation, and neurological health. It’s especially crucial for vegetarians and vegans.
Fix it: Animal products like eggs, dairy, and meat are primary sources. Plant-based? Look for fortified cereals or take a B12 supplement.
🌾 10. Fiber – For Gut and Heart Health
Fiber keeps your digestion on track, balances blood sugar, and helps lower cholesterol.
Fix it: Eat more oats, chia seeds, fruits with skins, beans, and whole grains. Bonus: Fiber feeds probiotics and improves gut health.
🧫 11. Probiotics – Your Gut's Good Bacteria
Your gut microbiome affects immunity, mental clarity, and inflammation. A healthy gut = a healthier you.
Fix it: Add fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, yogurt, or kefir. Probiotic supplements can also help—especially when traveling or after antibiotics (4).
🔥 12. Choline – For Liver, Brain, and Metabolism
Choline supports brain development, liver function, and fat metabolism—but many people have never heard of it.
Fix it: Eggs are the richest source. Also try beef liver, soybeans, and cruciferous vegetables.
🔁 13. Selenium – For Antioxidant Power and Thyroid Support
Selenium helps neutralize free radicals, supports the thyroid, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Fix it: Just one Brazil nut contains over 100% of your daily selenium needs! Also found in tuna, sunflower seeds, and whole grains.
💡 Your Nutrient Checklist in Action
You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight—but small, daily changes add up. Here are a few tips to get started:
-
Add color to your meals: The more varied your plate, the more nutrients you’re likely to get.
-
Snack smarter: Keep roasted chickpeas, trail mix, or a banana handy instead of ultra-processed snacks.
-
Hydrate intentionally: Choose beverages that give back. Hyburst is a great option for supporting hydration and replenishing key nutrients like vitamin C and potassium without added sugar or artificial junk.
-
Supplements help—but food comes first. When in doubt, consult with a healthcare provider to see where your gaps are.
What’s in Your Wellness Routine?
Let’s hear it from you!
👉 Which of these 13 nutrients do you think you might be missing?
👉 Do you use any tricks to stay on top of your wellness game while juggling a busy lifestyle?
Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear your tips, too!
Sources:
-
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "About Micronutrient Malnutrition Prevention."
-
National Institutes of Health. "Magnesium Fact Sheet for Health Professionals."
-
NIH National Library of Medicine. "Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and the brain: a review of the independent and shared effects of EPA, DPA and DHA."
-
Frontiers in Immunology. "Leaky Gut as a Danger Signal for Autoimmune Diseases."