Mineral Function Source
There are six major minerals; eight of these minerals are trace minerals which are found in food. The major minerals are; iron, calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. Even though some of these minerals are only required in tiny amounts they are needed for chemical processes in the body and our health will suffer if we do not consume these minerals.
Mineral
Function
source
Calcium
Helps to provide normal function of out nerves and muscle and also helps with blood clotting when you injure yourself.
Calcium is found in; Milk, cheese, yoghurt, tinned fish, fortified bread.
Sodium
Sodium helps the conduction of nerve impulses. And also helps to balance fluid in the tissues.
Sodium is found in; bacon and meat products. And is also added to other foods.
Potassium
Potassium is present in the fluids in all cells and is needed to help the cells function.
Potassium is found in; potatoes, vegetables and fruits
Selenium
Selenium is necessary for enzymes in the red blood cells.
Selenium is found in; meat, fish and cereal products.
Zinc is used to release energy and also used for wound healing.
Zinc is found in; meat and whole-wheat cereals.
Iron is needed for production of healthy red blood cells.
Iron is found in; liver, eggs, green leafy vegetables and bread.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential constituent of all cells.
Magnesium is found in; milk, bread, cereal product and potatoes.
Trace elements: Trace elements are minerals that ae only required in very tiny amounts, so unless a person has a specific condition, such as a genetic abnormality it is very unlikely that a deficiency in this will occur
Iron: iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin in the red blood cells; iron also helps the immune system and also the growth during childhood. If you also have a high intake of vitamin C then this will help to increase the