Quick Guide: Minerals and Mineral Supplements

Minerals and Mineral Supplements Minerals are just that: minerals found in the earth. Traces of these minerals enter our body through food, and are essential for healthy living. With the move towards refined and processed foods, it has become an increasing challenge to ingest appropriate levels of these elements through diet alone. Below you'll find descriptions of some of the more important minerals required by the human body.Calcium (Calcium Carbonate)Calcium, often taken in the form of calcium carbonate, is one of the body's essential mineral requirements. It is necessary for strong bones and teeth, and also aids in blood clotting, nerve transmission and proper muscle contraction.

Sources of Calcium Special Needs What You Should Know Dairy products Meat, Fish, Fruits, Vegetables. People at risk for osteoporosis should ensure they get adequate amounts of calcium. Excessive amounts of calcium can lead to kidney stones, excess calcium in the bloodstream (hypercalcemia), milk alkali syndrome and renal (kidney) insufficiency.

Chromium Chromium plays an important role in glucose metabolism, and helps the body regulate appropriate blood sugar levels.

Sources of Chromium Special Needs What You Should Know Cereals Meat, poultry and fish Beer No special group. Overly high levels of chromium can lead to chronic renal (kidney) failure.

Copper The body uses copper to build enzymes that metabolize iron, so adequate amounts of copper are essential.

Sources of Copper Special Needs What You Should Know Cereals Meat and poultry Nuts Wheat bran Cocoa products No special group. Excess amounts of copper can lead to stomach problems and liver damage.

Iron Iron is one of the body's better-known minerals. It is essential for red blood cell formation, and inadequate amounts of iron can lead to anemia (too few red blood cells).

Sources of Iron Special Needs What You Should Know Meats and poultry Fruits and vegetables Fortified bread Women require higher amounts of iron during childbearing years. Vegetarians may require iron supplements. Stomach disorders can occur if the body ingests too much iron.

SeleniumSelenium aids in several bodily functions. It is necessary for normal growth and development, regulates thyroid hormones, and forms part of an important antioxidant compound.

Sources of Selenium Special Needs What You Should Know Meat Seafood Plants grown in selenium-rich soil No special group requires selenium more than any other. Excess selenium leads to brittle hair and nails. Hair and nail loss may occur.