The Role of Micronutrients in Atherosclerosis: Mechanisms and Clinical Application

Micronutrients, though required in relatively small quantities by the human body, are essential for maintaining normal physiological functions and play a crucial role in the prevention and management of various diseases. Atherosclerosis (AS) is a common chronic inflammatory condition that often presents without obvious symptoms in its early stages but can lead to severe health issues such as acute myocardial infarction and stroke. The involvement of micronutrients in the early prevention and treatment of AS is critical, yet the efficacy of micronutrient supplementation for AS remains a subject of debate, and the specific mechanisms by which micronutrients influence AS are not fully understood. This study systematically summarises the mechanisms of micronutrients in AS and proposes that their roles in AS prevention and treatment should be properly understood and utilised. We further point out the limitations of current research and propose the future direction of systemic interventions based on the nutritional network, providing novel strategies for the prevention and treatment of AS.