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Everything You
Wanted to Know about Minerals
We hear about the importance of minerals all the time. But what
exactly are minerals? Naturally occurring in rocks and in the
soil, minerals are a kind of inorganic substance which is known
for its typical appearance and specific chemical composition. When
we are discussing the human body, minerals have three main
functions: it makes up the skeleton; it acts as soluble salts
which manage the body fluids and as adjuncts which help in the
processing of many enzymes and proteins. Calcium, magnesium,
Potassium, selenium, zinc and chromium picolinate are some of the
common types of minerals.
Calcium: one of the most important minerals in our body, which is
responsible for the growth and health of our bones and teeth.
Needed for proper functioning of the muscles and nerves calcium is
also responsible for our blood clotting. It is absolutely
imperative for children in their growing years. Foods rich in
calcium are: milk, cheese, eggs, dairy products, fruits, green
vegetables, almonds, seaweeds (such as kelp, wakame and hijiki),
nuts, beans and pulses, breads and fish. Calcium deficiency can
cause impairment in the growth of our bones and teeth, while
calcium in excess can result in the formation kidney stones.
Magnesium: For the maintenance of muscle, nerve and bone health,
we need magnesium, one type of mineral. It is also responsible for
maintaining heart beat, the rate at which energy is metabolized
and protein synthesis. Foods rich in magnesium include: spinach,
nuts, seeds, whole grains, water, fruits and vegetables. Lack of
magnesium in the body can result in sensitivity to noise,
nervousness, irritability, mental depression, confusion,
twitching, trembling, apprehension, insomnia, muscle weakness and
cramps in the toes, feet, legs, or fingers
Potassium: This mineral doubles up in its role as an essential
electrolyte responsible in keeping the fluid balance of the body
in shape. It controls the activity of the heart, muscular
movements, nervous system and works in every cell of the body. The
acidity of blood as well as water balance of the body is
maintained by this mineral. Our bodies contain potassium which is
twice the amount of sodium (nine vis-à-vis four ounces). Potassium
is found in plenty in foods like banana and oranges. Breads,
cereals and other products containing grain are also rich in
potassium. While an inadequate level of potassium may make you
feel weak, an excessive amount may increase the heart beat.
Selenium: This mineral works as a protein called seleno-proteins.
These work as enzymes to prevent cellular damage caused by
environmental oxidants or body’s natural metabolism. Seafood, some
meats (such as kidney and liver), and some grains and seeds offer
abundant source of this mineral. Inadequate selenium in the body
may result in Keshan disease which is a dangerous form of
heart-muscle disease which can also be fatal. Excessive selenium
may cause balding that is irreversible, brittle nails, bad breath,
intestinal disorders, weakness and retarded mental functioning.
Zinc: Manufacture of protein and cell division of our body is
caused by this important mineral which is also a component of
insulin. It is related to our sense of smell. Eggs, cereal grains,
meat, liver, seafood and nuts are good sources of zinc. Short body
stature, anemia, increased pigmentation of skin, enlarged liver
and spleen, impaired sexual function, slow wound healing, and
immune deficiency are some of the results of low zinc content in
our
body, while excess of this mineral can cause gastrointestinal
distress, and cause copper deficiency.
Chromium Picolinate: The main function of this mineral is
processing carbohydrates and fats. It works in conjunction with
insulin to make the cells absorb glucose and release energy. That
makes sugar available to the cells and makes us energetic. Meats,
whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fats and vegetable oils are
foods that are rich in this mineral. Lack of Chromium Picolinate
usually causes extreme tiredness and glucose intolerance for
people with diabetes, impaired metabolism of amino acids and an
enhanced risk of arteriosclerosis.
Source:
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