The human body uses two kinds of minerals -- macrominerals, which the body requires more than 100mg per day, and trace minerals, which the body uses less than 100mg per day. The body does not produce these minerals, so they must be obtained through diet or from supplements. The human body uses calcium, chromium, copper, fluoride, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium chloride and zinc.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential trace mineral for plants, animals and human beings, with adults having between 2 and 3g of zinc within their bodies. Muscles and bones contain more than 50 percent of zinc, with skin having approximately 20 percent or more. Zinc from animal and fish sources is better absorbed than zinc from vegetables and fruits. A high concentration of copper in the blood can inhibit zinc absorption from the intestine, while high zinc levels can reduce copper absorption. Zinc can also help detoxify high levels of cadmium in the body.
Copper
An essential trace mineral for humans, animals and various plants, the copper content in a healthy adult ranges between 75 and 150mg. Half of this remains in the bones and muscles. Ten percent is in the liver with a significant amount in the brain, kidneys and heart. Through the aging process, liver copper decreases while amounts in the brain increases to essentially the same concentration, but the significance of this is unknown. Babies have liver copper concentrations approximately 10 times that in an adult liver. It acts as a store since milk does not provide a rich source of this trace mineral.
Molybdenum
This essential trace element, found in animals and humans, uses the nitrogen in the air. It prevents dental caries, aids in iron metabolism and the excretion of uric acid and maintains normal sexual function in males. An adult has approximately 9mg, with most of the molybdenum found in the liver. The body absorbs 50 percent, while the balance is excreted through the urine. Deficiency symptoms include irritability, an irregular heartbeat and lack of uric acid production. In severe deficiencies, coma can result.
Selenium
Selenium is an essential trace mineral found in animals and humans. Adults have approximately 20mg, with most of it in the kidneys, liver and, in males, the testes. Absorption of selenium is more efficient from natural selenium than from the inorganic variety. A selenium deficiency can occur by eating too many refined and processed foods. Deficiencies have also been seen in infants fed on dried milk rather than breast milk. Food sources include organ meats, fish, shellfish, muscle meats, whole grains, dairy products, fruits and vegetables.
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