What benefits do minerals bring?
Minerals have been ascribed a large range of functions in the human body. It is well known, for instance, that calcium is important for the development and strength of bones and teeth; iron is essential for the development of red blood cells (which carry oxygen around the body); sodium (as found in salt) is involved in muscle contraction and nerve transmission. There are many other such connections:
- Calcium (in addition to its importance to bones and teeth) plays an essential role in blood clotting, nerve transmission and muscle contraction.
- Chromium appears to play a part in maintaining blood glucose levels.
- Copper helps the body take up iron.
- Iron (in addition to its role in red blood cells) bolsters the immune system.
- Iodine plays a key role in creating thyroid hormones.
- Magnesium is involved in the work of enzymes, and in muscle function and the formation of bones and teeth.
- Phosphorus is important for bones and teeth, and is associated with the creation and delivery of energy.
- Selenium helps to regulate the thyroid gland and serves as an antioxidant combating the free radicals associated with ageing; selenium deficiency has been linked to cardiovascular disease and cancer.
- Zinc is essential to the functioning of the immune system, the reproductive system, and the body's ability to repair tissue and wounds.
Useful website
www.nutrition.org.uk (British Nutrition Foundation)
