Minerals

Minerals are inorganic nutrients that are essential for maintaining normal bodily functions and overall health. They play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including bone formation, nerve function, and enzyme reactions.

Types of Minerals

There are two types of minerals: macrominerals and microminerals (trace minerals).

1. Macrominerals

• Calcium: Important for bone and teeth health, muscle function, and nerve transmission.
• Magnesium: Involved in energy production, muscle function, and bone health.
• Potassium: Helps maintain fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
• Sodium: Regulates fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
• Phosphorus: Essential for bone and teeth health, energy production, and cell membrane structure.
• Chloride: A component of stomach acid and helps maintain fluid balance.
• Sulfur: Found in certain amino acids and vitamins, and plays a role in cellular function.

2. Microminerals (Trace Minerals)

• Iron: Necessary for oxygen transport, energy production, and enzyme function.
• Zinc: Supports immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
• Copper: Involved in iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, and antioxidant function.
• Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant and is important for thyroid function.
• Iodine: Essential for thyroid hormone production and regulation of metabolic rate.
• Manganese: Supports bone formation, enzyme function, and antioxidant activity.
• Fluoride: Important for dental health and bone strength.
• Chromium: Enhances the action of insulin and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Molybdenum: Facilitates the function of certain enzymes.

Sources of Minerals

Minerals can be obtained from a variety of food sources, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, dairy products, and lean protein sources. It's important to consume a balanced diet to ensure an adequate intake of essential minerals.

Study Guide

1. Define minerals and explain their importance in the human body.
2. List and describe the two types of minerals, providing examples of each.
3. Explain the functions of at least three macrominerals and three microminerals in the body.
4. Discuss food sources of minerals and the importance of a balanced diet in mineral intake.
5. Compare and contrast macrominerals and microminerals in terms of their required intake and physiological roles.

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