by vanessa.stoeckel - Interaction Design -

04 – Micro Nutrients | Minerals

Minerals are inorganic elements that are essential for various vital functions in the human body. They are divided into two main categories: Bulk elements and trace elements.

Bulk elements:

These minerals are required in large quantities and play a crucial role in basic physiological processes. Bulk elements include:

  1. Calcium (Ca):
    Important for bone formation, blood clotting, muscle contraction and nerve conduction.
  2. Phosphorus (P):
    Main component of bones and teeth, involved in energy metabolism.
  3. Magnesium (Mg):
    Required for muscle and nerve function, energy production and bone health.
  4. Sodium (Na):
    Regulates the water balance, supports nerve and muscle activity.
  5. Potassium (K):
    Important for electrolyte balance, nerve and muscle activity, blood pressure regulation.
  6. Chloride (Cl):
    Contributes to acid-base balance and the formation of stomach acid.

Trace elements:

These minerals are needed in smaller quantities, but are just as important for health. Trace elements include:

  1. Iron (Fe):
    Necessary for oxygen transportation in the blood and energy metabolism.
  2. Zinc (Zn):
    Supports the immune system, wound healing, reproduction and metabolism.
  3. Copper (Cu):
    Involved in the formation of red blood cells, collagen and iron metabolism.
  4. Iodine (I):
    Important for thyroid function and the production of thyroid hormones.
  5. Manganese (Mn):
    Contributes to bone metabolism, protein and fat metabolism.
  6. Selenium (Se):
    Functions as an antioxidant, supports the immune system and thyroid function.

The intake of sufficient amounts of minerals through a balanced diet is crucial for maintaining health and preventing deficiency symptoms. An imbalance can lead to various health problems.

Sources

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