Benefits of Minerals on the Human Body

Overview of Benefits

• Bone and Teeth Health: Minerals like calcium and phosphorus are crucial for strong bones and teeth.
• Energy Production: Magnesium aids in converting food into energy.
• Muscle Function: Minerals such as potassium and calcium help with muscle contraction and relaxation.
• Nervous System Function: Sodium and potassium are vital for nerve signal transmission.
• Immune Support: Zinc boosts the immune system and helps with wound healing.
• Fluid Balance: Sodium, potassium, and chloride help maintain the body's fluid balance.
• Blood Health: Iron is necessary for hemoglobin production, which transports oxygen in the blood.

Most Important Minerals for Human Health

1. Calcium: Supports bone health and muscle function.
2. Iron: Essential for oxygen transport and energy production.
3. Magnesium: Involved in over 300 biochemical reactions, including muscle and nerve function.
4. Potassium: Maintains fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
5. Zinc: Supports immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis.
6. Phosphorus: Works with calcium to maintain bone health.
7. Sodium: Regulates fluid balance and supports muscle and nerve function.
8. Iodine: Necessary for thyroid hormone production.
9. Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant and supports immune health.

Categorization of Minerals

Macrominerals (Required in larger amounts)

• Calcium
• Phosphorus
• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Sodium
• Chloride
• Sulfur

Trace Minerals (Required in smaller amounts)

• Iron
• Zinc
• Copper
• Iodine
• Selenium
• Manganese
• Chromium
• Molybdenum
• Boron