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Minerals |
Minerals are critical to the nutrition your body needs. They are important in helping the body perform its essential functions. The body does not naturally produce minerals, so they must be acquired through your diet or through nutritional supplements. Minerals such as phosphorus and calcium help your body maintain tissue and blood. Unfortunately, many of the minerals found in soil, and thus plants and animals, are greatly depleted due to the aggressive practices of the agriculture industry. Therefore, many individuals today are not surprisingly mineral deficient. There are many health problems associated with mineral deficiency. Such problems include but are not limited to conditions impacting bone strength ( calcium deficiency), anemia ( iron deficiency) and thyroid problems (resulting from iodine deficiency). Before you dismiss common problems as simply aches or pains, you may want to think about your diet and the amount of minerals you are or are not receiving. Even digestive conditions, such as diarrhea or simply heartburn may be a side effect of mineral deficiency. Here is an explanation of several common minerals that are essential for your body: Calcium is absorbed and stored in the bones and are important for the body’s maintenance and growth. Calcium helps keeps bones strong and prevents osteoporosis, tooth problems and brittle bones. Although it is found in products such as cheese, milk and yogurt, most individuals do not receive the necessary calcium to maintain a healthy body. iodine Found commonly in seafood and green vegetables, iodine deficiency can cause mental disorders as well as physical problems, specifically poor thyroid functioning. iron If your body does not receive the proper amounts of iron, you may start seeing symptoms such as brittle hair and nails, and eventually lead to other problems such as blood disorders. Proper levels of iron are important because it helps move oxygen through the brain, heart and lungs. Magnesium is necessary for at least 300 metabolic functions in the body, including energy production, molecule synthesis and cell signaling. If left untreated, deficiencies of magnesium may lead to celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, prolonged diarrhea and intestinal inflammation Selenium works in the body to prevent damage to cells and works to prevent chronic disease like heart disease and diabetes. It also improves the immune system. Zinc is critical in order to help your body’s metabolism. It can also help your body with protein synthesis, DNA syntheses and wound healing. Zinc is also critical for the immune system. Many people are at risk for mineral deficiencies, especially those with gastrointestinal diseases, vegetarians, the elderly, and those who are pregnant. Discussing your mineral intake with a healthcare professional is very important. You may benefit from supplements which will improve the amount of minerals in your body. |
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Information on this website is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by a physician or other medical professionals. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider. You should consult your physician before starting any new supplement, diet or fitness regimen. |