Micronutrients - Minerals

These are inorganic elements and occur naturally in nonliving matter such as rocks and metal ores. Minerals are extremely important nutrients for the human body to stay healthy and are essential constituents of body fluids and tissues; components of enzyme systems and nerve function.

They are used in building bones, making hormones and regulating heartbeat. They have various roles in metabolism and body functions and are essential for the proper function of cells, tissues, and organs.

Some inorganic elements, such as iron, make up part of many proteins and enzymes in the body. Others, such as potassium, help in protein synthesis from amino acids and in the metabolism of carbohydrates. These inorganic elements also play a role in the building of muscle and bone and for normal body growth. The amount of each mineral we need changes during our lifetime.

Inorganic elements needed in larger amounts are called macrominerals: calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium and chloride. Others are required in smaller quantities (trace): iron, zinc, iodine, fluoride, selenium and copper. Despite being required in smaller amounts, trace elements are still just as important as the major elements.

Major elements

*Sodium, potassium, and chloride, are also known as the principal electrolytes.

Trace Elements

The best way to get the inorganic elements your body needs is by eating a wide variety of foods and taking mineral supplements as prescribed by your physician.

Other trace elements

There are other inorganic elements that are needed in very small amounts and that seem to be essential in a healthy diet: molybdenum, boron. Other inorganic elements occur in the diet which role is still unclear: nickel, lithium, antimony, aluminum and lead.

			topic: minerals