Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The MicroNutriMeter is an innovative device designed to provide you with the power to measure essential micronutrients from the comfort of your home, effortlessly. Through its user-friendly kits and straightforward instructions, you can seamlessly obtain crucial insights into your micronutrient levels. By linking the MicroNutriMeter to your smartphone via a dedicated app, you’ll be able to access your results in a snap.
Gone are the days of uncertainty about your nutritional status. The MicroNutriMeter’s app will not only present your results but also offer personalized recommendations for specific micronutrient supplements that can enrich your daily intake. These recommendations could range from natural sources like fruits and vegetables to vitamins and supplements available at your local pharmacy counter. This means you’ll have the tools to proactively take charge of your well-being and make informed decisions about your diet and supplementation, all at your fingertips.
The MicroNutriMeter operates on a concept similar to the blood glucose monitor, a familiar device in today’s market. Its premise is straightforward: a single droplet of blood, drawn with ease, serves as the foundation for comprehensive micronutrient testing. This process allows for the dynamic measurement of diverse micronutrient levels, tailored to your body’s specific needs on any given day or throughout different seasons.
Human bodies thrive within specific ranges of micronutrients, with values that hold significant importance for overall well-being.
The MicroNutriMeter extends its benefits across diverse age groups, making it a valuable tool for anyone seeking to enhance their well-being. However, as a responsible step, it’s advisable to engage with your healthcare provider before embarking on your MicroNutriMeter journey. This collaborative approach ensures that your usage aligns seamlessly with your individual health needs, fostering a pathway towards optimized health outcomes.
Using the MicroNutriMeter is remarkably simple. Included within the MicroNutriMeter package are user-friendly kits that facilitate the effortless collection of a single drop of blood. This process, designed to be pain-free, is the gateway to comprehensive micronutrient testing.
Upon analysis, the results seamlessly manifest on your smartphone app, furnishing you with a comprehensive list of micronutrients. Alternatively, you possess the flexibility to handpick specific micronutrients according to your requirements or areas of personal interest. This personalized approach empowers you with insights that resonate with your unique journey toward well-being.
The MicroNutriMeter is like a superhero for your health. It helps us understand what special things our bodies need to be strong and healthy. Just like we eat different foods for energy, our bodies also need tiny things called micronutrients to work their best.
But here’s the thing: sometimes our bodies don’t have enough of these micronutrients, and that can make us feel not so good. That’s where the MicroNutriMeter comes in. It’s like a magic tool that checks if we have enough of these special things in our bodies.
Using this tool is easy-peasy. You collect a teeny drop of blood, and the MicroNutriMeter looks at it and tells you if you have enough of those special things. It’s like a treasure map that helps us find the best foods or supplements to keep our bodies happy.
So, the MicroNutriMeter is important because it helps us know what our bodies need, and that makes us super strong and ready for all the fun things in life!
In my journey to bring the MicroNutriMeter to life, collaboration lies at the heart of my mission. Rooted in a vision of holistic well-being, I’m reaching across disciplines to join hands with experts who bring unique perspectives to our shared goal. As I aspire to be part of a prestigious business school for my undergraduate studies, this educational foundation will empower me to navigate the complexities of developing this innovation. Yet, this isn’t a solo expedition; it’s a collective effort to weave knowledge from diverse domains into something extraordinary.
I envision collaborating with departments spanning Nutrition, Electrical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, Medicine, Statistics, and more. Each field contributes essential elements to design, develop, and rigorously test the MicroNutriMeter. The strength of collaboration lies in the collective wisdom of experts from varied backgrounds, ensuring the MicroNutriMeter’s efficacy and offering profound insights into the significance of micronutrients for health and disease. This collaborative journey illuminates a path towards holistic well-being, transforming the health landscape one partnership at a time.
Anticipating the launch of the MicroNutriMeter is an exciting journey that involves a thorough process to ensure its efficacy and adherence to regulatory standards. The path to releasing this innovative device as a marketplace product demands careful consideration and meticulous attention to detail.
Bringing the MicroNutriMeter to fruition involves addressing various facets to effectively align with marketplace needs and regulations. Particularly in the United States, the process of releasing a medical device involves strict compliance with the regulations set by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This includes several essential steps: classifying the device based on risk, registering with the FDA, obtaining FDA clearance or approval, ensuring compliant labeling and advertising, adhering to post-market requirements, and maintaining a stringent quality system. These measures are integral to ensuring the MicroNutriMeter’s safety, effectiveness, and adherence to industry standards. As part of this comprehensive approach, I’m committed to aligning with the FDA’s regulations, ensuring that the MicroNutriMeter meets the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Given the intricate nature of this process and my unwavering commitment to safety and efficacy, I anticipate that the MicroNutriMeter will be released in the marketplace in approximately 10 years or more. This timeline reflects my dedication to taking the necessary steps to develop and deliver a device that revolutionizes how we understand and manage our micronutrient levels, ultimately contributing to better health and well-being. I understand the anticipation surrounding this innovation and am grateful for your interest in joining me on this transformative journey.
Micronutrient testing is not typically included in a standard blood panel because it requires specialized testing methods that are not routinely performed in most clinical laboratories.
While a standard blood panel usually measures a variety of different components in the blood, such as blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and electrolytes, it does not typically include measures of micronutrient levels. Micronutrients are vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients that are needed in small amounts for optimal health and function.
Testing for micronutrient levels typically requires specialized methods, such as mass spectrometry or other advanced techniques, which are not part of routine blood testing. Additionally, there is some debate among healthcare professionals about the usefulness and accuracy of micronutrient testing, as there is often a poor correlation between micronutrient levels in the blood and actual nutrient status in the body.
Overall, while micronutrient testing may be useful in certain situations, such as in cases of suspected nutrient deficiencies or malabsorption syndromes, it is not generally included in routine blood panels due to the specialized testing methods and the lack of consensus about its clinical utility.
What sets the MicroNutriMeter apart from other health devices is its unique focus on a fundamental aspect of well-being: micronutrients. While many health devices monitor vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure, the MicroNutriMeter delves deeper into our bodies’ intricate needs. By measuring essential micronutrient levels with just a single drop of blood, this device empowers individuals to comprehend their nutrition at a granular level, fostering a proactive approach to health management.
Unlike traditional health monitors, the MicroNutriMeter bridges the gap between data and action. It not only provides comprehensive insights into an individual’s micronutrient status but also goes a step further by offering personalized recommendations for specific micronutrient supplements. This tailored guidance equips users with the knowledge to make informed dietary choices, ensuring they meet their body’s unique requirements. By addressing micronutrient deficiencies proactively, the MicroNutriMeter stands as a beacon of empowerment, revolutionizing the way we perceive and prioritize our health.
Joining our MicroNutriMeter journey means embracing a future of improved health and well-being, and your involvement is pivotal in making this vision a reality. There are multiple ways you can actively participate and contribute to this transformative endeavor.
Firstly, help us spread the word: Share our mission with your circle of influence, whether it’s through conversations, social media, or community engagements. By creating awareness about the importance of micronutrients and the potential of the MicroNutriMeter, you’re igniting a ripple effect that drives positive change.
Secondly, by backing our initiative, you’re investing in a future where personalized health management is accessible to everyone. Your support acts as a driving force, propelling us forward in our pursuit to redefine health and wellness.
Together, let’s collaborate, innovate, and create a healthier world. Your involvement isn’t just a step forward – it’s a leap towards a future where empowered health decisions are within everyone’s reach. Join us on the MicroNutriMeter journey today and be a catalyst for change.
The MicroNutriMeter holds the key to tackling micronutrient deficiencies head-on, ushering in a new era of proactive health management. By harnessing cutting-edge technology and insights from diverse disciplines, this innovative device empowers individuals to bridge the gap between their nutritional needs and their current micronutrient levels.
Imagine having the ability to pinpoint specific micronutrient deficiencies with precision, using just a single drop of blood. The MicroNutriMeter accomplishes exactly that, providing comprehensive insights into an individual’s micronutrient status. But it doesn’t stop there. Armed with this knowledge, users receive personalized recommendations for specific micronutrient supplements, as well as natural sources like fruits and vegetables. This guidance ensures that addressing deficiencies becomes a targeted and effective process. By empowering individuals to make informed choices about their diet and supplementation, the MicroNutriMeter paves the way for healthier lives and reduced risks associated with micronutrient imbalances. Through this revolutionary approach, the MicroNutriMeter not only enhances health but also shifts the narrative from reactive to preventive, fostering a society that actively manages and optimizes its micronutrient intake for a brighter and more robust future.
Certainly, it’s important to note that the MicroNutriMeter is currently in its early stages of development. As we progress, we are committed to collaborating closely with every department and expert to ensure that the device delivers results of utmost accuracy. Our dedication to scientific integrity and technological precision mirrors the approach taken in developing at-home blood tests that have become reliable tools for health management.
Just like at-home blood tests have evolved to provide accurate results, we are determined to harness the power of collaboration and scientific advancement to fine-tune the MicroNutriMeter’s capabilities. The aim is to ensure that the information it provides is not only actionable but also mirrors the accuracy of traditional blood tests conducted in a clinical setting. Rest assured, as the MicroNutriMeter evolves, our commitment to transparency, validation, and precision will be at the forefront, ultimately paving the way for a trustworthy and dependable device that empowers you to manage your health with confidence.
While the initial launch of the MicroNutriMeter is planned for the US market, the design embraces a broader global vision. The journey involves navigating the intricate landscape of regulations and requirements specific to each region, with the goal of ensuring that the MicroNutriMeter complies with the stringent standards set forth by each jurisdiction. This starts with the US, where adherence to regulations set by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) takes precedence.
However, the ambitions for the MicroNutriMeter extend beyond borders. The overarching mission is to make a positive impact on global health, particularly in developing nations in Africa and Asia. The vision is to make this innovative device accessible at an affordable price point, ensuring that individuals in regions with limited resources can also benefit from its insights. This commitment arises from the belief in equitable health solutions and the recognition that micronutrient deficiencies present a universal challenge. The aim is to transcend geographical boundaries, providing people worldwide with a valuable tool for improved well-being.
- Ammonia 22– 39 mmol/ l
- Calcium 8.5– 10.5 mg/ dl or 2.25– 2.65 mmol/ l
- Carbon dioxide 24– 30 meq/ l or 24– 29 mmol/ l
- Chloride 100– 106 meq/ l or mmol/ l
- Copper 100– 200 mg/ dl or 16– 31 mmol/ l
- Iron 50– 150 mg/ dl or 11.6– 31.3 mmol/ l
- Lead 50 mg/ dl or less
- Magnesium 1.5– 2.0 meq/ l or 0.75– 1.25 mmol/ l
- P CO2 35– 40 mm Hg
- pH 7.35– 7.45
- Phosphorus 3.0– 4.5 mg/ dl or 1– 1.5 mmol/ l
- P O2 75– 100 mm Hg
- Potassium 3.5– 5.0 meq/ l or 2.5– 5.0 mmol/ l
- Sodium 135– 145 meq/ l or 135– 145 mmol/ l
- Acetoacetate <2 mmol
- Ascorbic acid 0.4– 15 mg/ dl or 23– 85 mmol/ l
- Bilirubin 0.4– 0.6 mg/ dl or 1.71– 6.84 mmol/ l
- Carotinoids 0.8– 4.0 mg/ ml
- Creatinine 0.6– 1.5 mg/ dl or 60– 130 mmol/ l
- Lactic acid 0.6– 1.8 meq/ l or 0.44– 1.28 mmol/ l
- Cholesterol 120– 220 mg/ dl or 3.9– 7.3 mmol/ l
- Triglycerides 40– 150 mg/ dl or 6– 18 mmol/ l
- Pyruvic acid 0– 0.11 meq/ l or 79.8– 228.0 mmol/ l
- Urea nitrogen 8– 25 mg/ dl or 2.86– 7.14 mmol/ l
- Uric acid 3.0– 7.0 mg/ dl or 0.18– 0.29 mmol/ l
- Vitamin A 0.15– 0.6 mg/ dl
- Albumin 3.5– 5.0 g/ dl
- Insulin 6– 20 mU/ dl
- Glucose 70– 100 mg/ dl or 4– 6 mmol/ l
Source: Advanced Nutrition: Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Metabolism (3rd edition) by Carolyn D. Berdanier, & Lynnette A. Berdanier
- Calcium, mg/ 24 hours 100– 250
- Chloride, meq/ 24 hours 110– 250
- Copper, μg/ 24 hours 0– 100
- Lead, μg/ 24 hours <100
- Phosphorus, g/ 24 hours 0.9– 1.3
- Potassium, meq/ 24 hours 25– 100
- Sodium, meq/ 24 hours 130– 260
- Zinc, mg/ 24 hours 0.15– 1.2
- Creatinine, mg/ kg body weight 15– 25
- Riboflavin, μg/ g creatinine >80
- Niacin metabolite,a μg/ g creatinine >1.6
- Pyridoxine, μg/ g creatinine >20
- Biotin, μg/ 24 hours >25
- Pantothenic acid, mg/ 24 hours >1
- Folate, FIGLUb after histidine load <5 mg/ 8 hours
- B12, methylmalonic acid after valine load <2 mg/ 24 hours
Source: Advanced Nutrition: Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Metabolism (3rd edition) by Carolyn D. Berdanier, & Lynnette A. Berdanier
- Nutrition: www.ASN.org
- Physiology: www.aps.org
- Heart disease: www.americanheart.org, www.pediheart.org
- Diabetes mellitus: www.diabetes.org, www.jdfr.org
- Genetic diseases: www.mansfieldct.org/schools/mms/staff/hand/Gendisease.htm; www.cdh.org/healthinformation.aspx?pageld=P02505; www.genetics.org.uk; www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/rarediseases.html; www.research.jax.org/index.html
- Alcoholism: www.niaaa.nih.gov/
- Food allergies and food intolerance: www.fda.gov/Food/; www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/allergies/food-allergies.aspx; www.nhs.uk/Conditions/food-allergy/ (UK based)
- Metabolic syndrome (overweight and fatty liver): www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/More/MetabolicSyndrome/Metabolic-Syndrome_UCM_002080_SubHomePage.jsp; www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/ms/
- Malnourished child: kidshealth.org/parent/growth/feeding/hunger.html; www.bapen.org.uk/
- Failure to thrive: kidshealth.org/parent/growth/growth/failure_thrive.html#cat162; www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001986/
- Pediatric nutrition: www.eatright.org/; www.bcm.edu/cnrc/; www.familyfoodzone.com/
- Childhood obesity: www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/index.html; win.niddk.nih.gov/index.htm; www2.aap.org/obesity/; www.med.umich.edu/1libr/yourchild/obesity.htm; www.aafp.org/afp/990215ap/861.html
- Eating disorders: www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/; www.helpguide.org/mental/anorexia_signs_symptoms_causes_treatment.htm; http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/mental_health/eat_disorder.html; www.recoveryconnection.org/eating-disorders/
- Nutrition and oral health: www.mouthhealthy.org/Home/az-topics/d/diet-and-dental-health – American Dental Association site
- Bioactive food components: www.eufic.org/article/en/artid/Nutrient-bioavailability-food/; http://ec.europa.eu/research/biosociety/food_quality/projects_en.html
- Herbal supplements: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/supplements/wiseuse.htm; http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/dietary-supplements/herbal-information; http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/food-composition/individual-macronutrients-phytonutrients-
- Nutrition and disease: www.nestlehealthscience.com.au/; http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/diet-and-disease
- Nutrition and renal disease: http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/index.aspx
- Nutrition and cardiovascular disease: http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/diet-and-disease/heart-health
- Nutrition and diabetes: http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/consumers/eating-health/diabetes-and-prediabetes
- Nutritional management of the bariatric surgery patient: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/weightlosssurgery.html
- Nutrition and age-related eye disease: www.lighthouse.org/eye-health/
- Macular degeneration: www.macular.org/nutrition/index.html
- Glaucoma: www.glaucoma.org/treatment/nutrition-and-glaucoma.php
- Drug/nutrient interactions: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/he776
Source: Advanced Nutrition: Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Metabolism (3rd edition) by Carolyn D. Berdanier, & Lynnette A. Berdanier