Minerals: The Basic Facts
November 7, 2008
Minerals are chemical substances that the body needs to function properly. Considering the fact that they are element on the periodic table, we tend to look at them as if they are very strange things to be in our diet. But if we follow the right diet regime we will not have to consult the periodic table to see which minerals we need. They are readily available in edible forms in most of the foods we eat. Here is a list of them.
Magnesium
This is the mineral that help in transmitting nerve impulses and transfer of energy from one cell to the other. It is found in grains, legumes, seeds, and green vegetables. Magnesium deficiency is indicated by cardiovascular problems, nausea, and growth failure. There is also irritability, muscle twitching, insomnia, and in severe cases there could be hallucinations.
Iodine
Iodine helps regulate body metabolism and stimulates the production of thyroid. It could be found in iodated salt, yogurt and sea food. When you are deficient in iodine, you experience slow metabolism and in severe cases goitre, an enlargement of the thyroid gland.
Sodium
The work of sodium is to regulate blood pressure and volume. It also aids the function of muscles and nerves. The natural source of sodium is salt. It is also found in soy sauce, and some processed meat. Most people suffer from high doses of sodium which is seen in high blood pressure. In cases of deficiency, there is muscle weakness and decreases appetite.
Potassium
It is the mineral that helps in the regulation of the body’s acid–base balance. It also helps in the synthesis of protein and general body metabolism. Fish is a rich source of potassium. It can also be found in potatoes, avocadoes, fresh bananas, apricots, apples, and green vegetables. Signs of potassium deficiency include fatigue, muscle weakness, decreased heart rate, nausea, paralysis and confusion.
Calcium
Calcium maintains the bones and keeps them strong. It also helps in controlling nerve impulses and muscle contraction. It is found in dairy products and fish bones. It is also found in tofu. Deficiency is shown by loss of bone mineral.
Minerals are very necessary for healthy living, although they are mostly ignored in discussion about food.
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