People often ask why we need minerals in the diet. This article covers the general functions of minerals, the different kinds of minerals that are essential, and what foods are abundant in minerals.
Minerals play an integral role in our body’s micro-processes, so getting sufficient amounts in your diet is important to be aware of.
Think of the earth: rocks and roots keep compact. Similarly, minerals we consume are the glue that helps keep the integrity of body systems intact.
Minerals perform a multitude of functions. To cite a few:
1. Minerals are components of enzymes and coenzymes in the body, speeding up chemical reactions to move metabolic processes along. There are 18 essential minerals the body needs for metabolic function.
2. Minerals are an important part of bone and blood composition, and minerals as electrolytes provide balance for nerve conduction and muscle contraction.
3. Minerals aid in cellular transport, and are components of certain hormones, enzymes, and coenzymes.
4. On a more global level, minerals are involved in energy regulation, blood production and function, and heart and digestive health.
There are two categories of minerals, major and minor, differentiated by body requirement, with major 100 milligrams or more, and minor or trace less than 100 milligrams.
Major Minerals: RDA/AI
Calcium…………………………1300mg
Phosphorus……………………..700mg
Potassium………………………4700mg
Sodium………………………….1500mg
Chloride………………………..2300mg
Magnesium………………………420mg
Sulfur………………………..unavailable
Trace Minerals:
Boron…………………………unavailable
Chromium………………….50-200mcg
Copper……………………………..900µg
Iodine……………………………….150µg
Iron…………………………………..18mg
Manganese…………………………2.3mg
Molybdenum………………………..45µg
Selenium……………………………..55µg
Silicon…………………………unavailable
Vanadium…………………….unavailable
Zinc……………………………………11mg
Proper nutrition, regular exercise, consideration of healthy lifestyle habits, and a little “me-time” every day are all part of a your treatment plan along with acupuncture at Mountaintop Acupuncture & Rehabilitation.
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