minerals

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Minerals
Minerals are the inorganic elements which comprise part of the body. They contribute from 60% to 80% of all the inorganic material in the human body. The trace elements make up the remainder. Minerals and trace elements serve as vital catalysts for the biological reactions that take place within the body. They are found, for example, in bones, teeth and soft tissues. They are needed for the production of blood, hormones and enzymes, thus serving a life sustaining function.

The absorption of minerals and trace elements (excluding electrolytes) is generally less efficient than that of other nutrients. The term “bioavailability” refers to the degree to which a particular nutrient is available for use in the body. There are many factors which influence bioavailability including the compound form of the mineral or trace element.

Boron helps influence the metabolism of nutrients that help maintain bone health and may play a role in hormone regulation.

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. Its primary function – in cooperation with phosphorus – is to help build and maintain bones and teeth. Calcium aids the blood-clotting process and helps control the passage of fluids through cells. Calcium is also is related to proper functioning of the heart and neuromuscular system.

Chromium, when complexed as the Glucose Tolerance Factor, plays a role in the effectiveness of insulin, the hormone responsible for blood sugar metabolism.

Copper aids iron absorption, helping to form haemoglobin of red blood cells.

Copper also helps convert amino acids into pigment, thereby adding colour to hair and skin.

Iodine is an essential component of the thyroid hormone, thyroxine, which is the master regulator of metabolism.

Iron acts with protein and copper to make haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component of red blood cells.

Magnesium is involved in muscle contraction and nerve function. At least half of the magnesium in the body is combined with calcium and phosphorus in bones. The remainder is in soft tissues including red blood cells and muscles.

Manganese is an important activator of enzyme systems. It is involved in protein synthesis and fatty acid metabolism. Manganese is also necessary for normal skeletal development and pituitary gland activity.

Molybdenum is a trace element that serves as a cofactor in many enzyme systems. It is also involved in the physiological roles of sulfur-containing amino acids.

Phosphorus is the second most abundant mineral in the body and is found in every living cell. It is involved in helping the proper function of muscles and nerves and often works in conjunction with calcium.

Selenium is an essential trace mineral that works synergistically with vitamin E. As a constituent of glutathione peroxidase, an antioxidant enzyme, selenium helps neutralize the effects of free radicals within body tissue.

Sodium and potassium are involved in the process of balancing fluid within the body. Sodium is found predominantly in fluids outside the cells, while potassium is found inside the cells. The balance of these two electrolytes – along with calcium and magnesium – plays a vital role in helping to maintain cardiovascular function.

Zinc is an essential trace mineral, important to help support the immune system. It is also a component of insulin, body fluids, and many enzyme systems.

Important Notice Regarding Supplementation

For many people, nutritional supplementation can be an important and useful adjunct to a healthy diet. However, by no means should supplementation be a substitute for food and it should also be recognised that certain nutrients should be used within the recommended guidelines so as to reduce the possibility of toxicity or side effects.

This list is only offered as a general guide and is not to be viewed as a definitive statement on the subject of drug-nutrient interactions or toxicity.

Caution should always be used with individuals who are taking any form of drug therapy.

Ongoing research will no doubt turn up additional information on the relationship between optimum nutrient intake and overdose. If in doubt consult either an authoritative text such as Martindale, Merck Index or the Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

The following may serve as a useful guide to some of the more common contra-indications.

Boron

Used in low levels appears to be well tolerated. Long-term use of higher levels may lead to accumulative risks.

Calcium

Contra-indicated in some cases of kidney stone formation and renal disease and calcium channel blocker drugs.

Chromium

Use with caution and only under medical supervision in cases of diabetes.

Iron

Iron can accumulate in the system and long-term use should be monitored.
Contra-indicated in cases of Addisons Disease.
Inorganic iron supplements can cause diarrhoea alternating with constipation and stomach cramps.
Inorganic iron supplements can cause dark brown to black bowel motions.

Magnesium

Contra-indicated in kidney disease.
Can cause diarrhoea, nausea and sometimes headaches when taken in large doses.

Manganese

Generally regarded as safe to use at normal supplement levels.

Molybdenum

Toxic doses can cause hair loss and headaches along with blurred vision.
Moderate intakes are generally well tolerated.

Potassium

Avoid use in cases of hyperkalemia (elevated blood potassium levels)
Avoid supplementation in kidney disease.

Selenium

Selenium toxicity can cause abnormal growth of the toe-nails and fingernails.
Selenium levels above 400mcg daily are best avoided unless under medical supervision.

Zinc

Prolonged intake of high levels of zinc can cause immuno-suppression.
Long-term use of high intake zinc supplementation should be monitored.