At least 18 minerals are essential in human nutrition. They are divided into major minerals and minor minerals. Our bodies need more than 100 mg of major minerals daily and less than 100 mg of minor minerals. The major minerals are calcium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, and sulfur. The minor (or trace) minerals are boron, chromium, copper, iodine, iron, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, silicon, vanadium, and zinc. Make sure you are obtaining a balanced mineral intake.
Manganese (Mn) enters into the work of several enzymes which affect metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It aids coordinative action between brain, nerves, and muscles. This trace mineral is also involved in reproduction and mammary gland function, and it works with choline in fat digestion and utilization. It also aids in the formation of…
Copper (Cu) works closely with iron in accomplishing the same functions. It is needed for RNA production, protein metabolism, healing processes, and hair color. It is involved in brain, nerve, bone, and connective tissue development. Several enzymes’ systems require this trace mineral. The highest concentration (amount per gram of tissue) is in the brain and…
Selenium (Se) is a powerful antioxidant. It works closely with vitamin E and has similar functions. It helps vitamin E accomplish more, so not as much is needed. It keeps hemoglobin from being damaged by oxidation and slows the aging process by inhibiting action of free radicals. Selenium benefits also include the regeneration of liver…
Chlorine (Cl) mainly occurs in compound form with sodium or potassium and is widely distributed throughout the body in the form of chloride. It is needed, along with sodium, for production of hydrochloric acid (stomach acid). Without HCI, minerals cannot properly absorb, and proteins cannot be digested. Chlorine is also involved in fluid and electrolyte balance, and liver function. …
Sulfur is an acid forming mineral, found in all body tissues, and is needed for the formation of four amino acids: cysteine, methionine, glutathione, and taurine. It is needed for healthy hair, skin and nails, and utilization of oxygen by the body. It disinfects the blood, protects cell protoplasm, helps the body resist bacteria, stimulates bile secretion, and protects…
Iron (Fe) is needed for hemoglobin formation in the blood. Hemoglobin enables the red blood cells to fill with oxygen and carry it to the cells. It is also needed for myoglobin, the type of hemoglobin in muscle tissue, and the production of enzymes. It is needed for growth, energy production, and immune protection. Sources Herbal…
Zinc (Zn) is needed for RNA and DNA formation, and synthesis of proteins. A element in over 200 enzymes, zinc is in every body cell. It functions in more enzyme reactions than any other mineral. Also, crucial to many hormones, it is primarily stored in the muscles and is highly concentrated in red and white blood cells. It is extremely…
Thyroxine, the hormone produced by the thyroid gland, is almost pure iodine (I). Thyroxine (T3 is the most active form) regulates very much of the total functions of the body, including metabolism, energy production, body weight, heat, etc. Plentiful amounts of this mineral in the diet can block absorption of radioactive iodine from fallout. It can also…
Sodium (Na) works closely with potassium and chlorine in a number of important functions. They maintain proper electrolyte balance; for they change into electrically charged ions which carry nerve impulses. They also control and maintain osmotic pressure into, and out of, the cells. This enables the blood to carry nutrients throughout the body. They also…
Phosphorus works with calcium, but only when in proper balance. They work together to build bones and teeth. It is also needed to maintain an acid-alkali balance in the blood. It is necessary for nerve function and carbohydrate metabolism. Phosphorus Sources Deficiency Symptoms For practical purposes, hardly ever seen. Symptoms would include poor mineralization of…
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