Trace Minerals that your body needs.

Your body performs all sorts of complex biological processes, to keep you alive. And for the body to function, it needs fuel and one of those rare minerals, or better known as essential minerals. They are essential because the body alone cannot manufacture or produce as such. That’s why the means to obtain these essential minerals is through our diet.

Minerals can be classified into two parts, macro-minerals and trace minerals. Macro-minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sodium. Which should be obtained in larger amounts. And trace minerals like iron and copper. In which your body only needs a tiny amount of it.

Too much or too little of these minerals can lead to all sorts of problems in the body, that’s why it is important to have a well-balanced diet.

So What are some sources of these minerals and how do they help the body function properly.

Some Examples of Macro-minerals


1. Sodium - The human body is mostly made up of water, and sodium helps in achieving different fluid balances in the body. And of course, crucial for muscle contraction and movement. The common sources of sodium are humble table salt, milk, and processed meat. But be careful thou, a surplus of sodium in the body can lead to high blood pressure.
 

2. Calcium - One of the primary materials, needed for building bones and teeth is calcium. The sources of these minerals can be obtained from milk or dairy products, legumes, and vegetables like broccoli.
 

3. Magnesium - This mineral is important for making proteins and muscle contraction. It also helps in maintaining immune health. Magnesium can be sourced from nuts, legumes, and seafood.
Some Examples of Trace minerals
 

4. Iron - a helper molecule that helps in delivering oxygen to different cells in the body. A deficiency in this molecule can lead to anemia, in which your cells don’t get enough oxygen. Sources for this essential molecule can be found in red meat, poultry, and leafy greens.
 

5. Iodine - a thyroid hormone that helps regulate growth hormones and metabolism. These trace minerals can be obtained from salt that is fortified with iron, dairy products, and seafood.