Essential minerals, also called dietary minerals, are necessary for your body to function properly. Along with nutrients and vitamins, your body needs minerals to help it perform its wide variety of tasks. Although minerals are important, your body cannot produce its own. Plants are the best and most direct source of minerals. Animal products can also indirectly contain minerals. If directed by a doctor, you can also take mineral supplements.
Calcium
According to the Linus Pauling Institute of Micronutrient Research for Optimum Health, the most prevalent mineral in your body is calcium. Most of the calcium in your body is in your bones and teeth, where it provides structure. Broccoli, bok choy, cabbage, kale, mustard greens and turnip greens are good sources of calcium found in plants. Dairy products are also good sources of calcium.
Magnesium
Your body requires magnesium for a wide variety of processes. Magnesium helps with the production of energy and healthy cells. It also must be present so that the genetic materials DNA and RNA can be made by your body. Green, leafy vegetables are rich in magnesium, as are unrefined grains and nuts.
Phosphorus
Like magnesium, your body also relies on phosphorus for a wide variety of functions. These include, but are not limited to, the structure of bones and cell membranes, the storage and production of energy, the transmission of genetic information, the activation of enzymes and the regulation of pH.
The best sources of phosphorus are dairy products and meat. Legumes are a good source of phosphorous for vegetarians and vegans; however your body can absorb only about half of the phosphorus contained in plant sources.
Potassium
Potassium is crucial for the transmission of nerve impulses and the contraction of muscles. Anyone who has ever experienced a muscle cramp while exercising can attest to the importance of potassium. This mineral can be obtained from eating fruits and vegetables, and is found in especially high concetrations in bananas, potatoes and plums.
Sodium and Chlorine
Both sodium and chlorine are responsible for maintaining the correct balance of fluids and electrolytes in your body. They are combined to make sodium chloride, which is more commonly known as table salt. Salt can be added to fresh foods, and is often already added to processed or prepared foods.
Sulfur
The proteins, amino acids and enzymes necessary for your body to function properly all contain sulphur. Plants that are rich in sulfur include garlic and onions. Meat, eggs, and dairy also contain significant amounts of sulphur.
Trace Minerals
Trace minerals, also called microminerals, are also essential for your body to function properly. Trace minerals include cobalt, copper, fluoride, iodine, iron, manganese, selenium and zinc. They can also all be obtained by eating a wide variety of foods or by taking supplements.
Member Comments