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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
Calcium
Chromium
Iron
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Iron
can accumulate in the system and long-term use should be monitored.
Contra-indicated in cases of Addisons Disease.
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Inorganic iron supplements can cause diarrhoea alternating with constipation
and stomach cramps.
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Inorganic iron supplements can cause dark brown to black bowel motions.
Magnesium
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Contra-indicated in kidney disease.
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Can
cause diarrhoea, nausea and sometimes headaches when taken in large doses.
Manganese
Molybdenum
Potassium
Selenium
Zinc
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