Minerals are essential nutrients that the body needs in order to function properly. They are involved in many different biochemical processes, including cell proliferation and differentiation, fluid balance, muscle contraction and nerve conduction. Minerals also play a role in bone formation and maintenance. They are needed for cell signaling, nerve conduction, and muscle contraction. In addition, minerals play a role in many biochemical processes such as energy production, enzyme activity, and DNA replication.
There are two types of minerals: macrominerals and trace minerals. Macrominerals are required in larger amounts than trace minerals. The major macromineral nutrients include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium and chloride. Trace minerals include iron, zinc copper, iodine selenium and manganese. Although they are needed in smaller amounts than macrominerals, trace minerals are just as important for health . For example, iron is essential for oxygen transport throughout the body, and iodine is necessary for thyroid hormone production.
A healthy diet should provide all the nutrients we need – including adequate levels of vitamins and minerals - to support good health . Most people can get the vitamin C they need by eating a varied diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables . However, some groups might require supplements to ensure they reach their recommended daily amount : these includes pregnant women ; smokers ; people with certain medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease or have had part of their stomach removed ; those who have undergone weight-loss surgery; Older adults over age 50 because they absorb less Vitamin B12 from food(4).. As we age our bodies become less efficient at extracting nutrients from food so it becomes more important to eat foods that contain higher levels of vitamins & mineral or take supplements when advised by a healthcare professional.
The best way to get enough vitamins is to eat a variety between meals each day . A good rule is make half your plate fruits & vegetables at every meal. Fruits and vegetables contain fiber which aiding digestion, regulating blood sugar levels, lowers cholesterol, reduces risk of heart disease, helps to manage weight and protects against certain cancers. They also tend be low calorie so can help if you’re trying lose weight or maintain weight loss.. Focusing on getting nutrient dense foods will help ensure you’re getting most bang for your buck when it comes nutrition. This means choosing foods based on how much nutrient per calorie they contain rather than those empty calories found processed snacks & sweets.(12 )In general dark green leafy veggies like spinach, kale broccoli offer more nutrient per calorie than iceberg lettuce while canned fruit packed syrup has fewer nutritional benefits compared fresh whole fruit. It's not about cutting out all unhealthy foods but making sure majority meals & snacks come from nutritious sources like fruits veggies lean protein whole grains nuts seeds dairy yogurt beans legumes etc.