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Nutrient Bioavailability

Meaning

Nutrient bioavailability is the clinical measure of the proportion of an ingested nutrient, such as a mineral or vitamin, that is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and subsequently utilized for physiological function or stored in the body. In the context of hormonal health, optimal bioavailability is crucial because micronutrients like iodine, selenium, and zinc are essential cofactors for thyroid hormone synthesis and steroidogenesis. Poor bioavailability can lead to subclinical deficiencies, undermining the efficacy of even the most precise hormonal balancing protocols.