Minerals & minerals

Minerals are chemical compounds that the body needs for its functions. Minerals are the elements that make up these compounds. They are dissolved in liquids and foods or contained as traces. The essential minerals include: Magnesium, potassium, calcium, chloride, sodium, phosphorus and sulphur, iron, iodine, zinc, fluorine, copper, manganese, selenium, silicon, cobalt, molybdenum and vanadium.

Minerals and minerals in the human body

Minerals fulfill important functions in the human body. Among other things, they are involved in regulating the water balance, support the metabolism and digestion, promote growth and cell renewal and strengthen the immune system. A lack of minerals can lead to various health problems.

Important minerals and their functions

Magnesium: Magnesium is important for muscle function, energy metabolism and bone health.

Potassium: Potassium is important for the water balance, nerve function and the regulation of blood pressure.

Calcium: Calcium is important for bone health, muscle function and blood clotting.

Chloride: Chloride is important for the acid-base balance, digestion and water balance.

Sodium: Sodium is important for the water balance, nerve function and the regulation of blood pressure.

Phosphorus: Phosphorus is important for energy metabolism, bone health and cell function.

Iron: Iron is important for oxygen transport in the blood, energy production and immune function.

Iodine: Iodine is important for thyroid function and the production of thyroid hormones.

Zinc: Zinc is important for wound healing, the immune system and the production of hormones.

Fluorine: Fluorine is important for caries prevention and bone health.

Copper: Copper is important for iron metabolism, the production of connective tissue and the immune system.

Manganese: Manganese is important for energy metabolism, bone health and enzyme function.

Selenium: Selenium is important for the immune system, thyroid function and antioxidant defense.

Silicon: Silicon is important for bone health, the formation of connective tissue and the immune system.

Cobalt: Cobalt is important for the production of vitamin B12 and energy metabolism.

Molybdenum: Molybdenum is important for the breakdown of amino acids, the formation of uric acid and the detoxification of heavy metals.

Vanadium: Vanadium is important for sugar metabolism, bone health and insulin sensitivity.

Mineral deficiency and its consequences

A lack of minerals can lead to various health problems. For example, a magnesium deficiency can cause muscle cramps, fatigue and sleep disorders. A calcium deficiency can lead to osteoporosis, bone fractures and growth disorders. A lack of iron can lead to anaemia, tiredness and weakness.

Adequate supply of minerals

An adequate intake of minerals is important for good health. The recommended daily intake varies depending on the mineral and age. Most minerals can be obtained through a balanced diet. Foods that are rich in minerals include dairy products, green vegetables, pulses, nuts and wholegrain products.

Summary

Minerals are chemical compounds that the body needs for its functions. Minerals are the elements that make up these compounds. Essential minerals include magnesium, potassium, calcium, chloride, sodium, phosphorus and sulphur, iron, iodine, zinc, fluorine, copper, manganese, selenium, silicon, cobalt, molybdenum and vanadium. An adequate supply of minerals is important for good health.