Minerals

Minerals are essential nutrients that your body needs to function properly. They play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including bone health, nerve function, and energy production. Here are some important minerals found in food.

Types of Minerals Present in food:

Calcium: Essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. Dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods are good sources.
Iron: Important for the formation of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and fortified cereals are good sources.
Magnesium: Involved in muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and bone health. Nuts, seeds, whole grains, leafy green vegetables, and legumes are good sources.
Phosphorus: Works with calcium to build strong bones and teeth. Found in dairy products, meat, fish, poultry, and nuts.
Potassium: Essential for maintaining proper fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions. Bananas, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, and leafy green vegetables are good sources.
Sodium: Important for fluid balance and nerve function. Table salt is a common source, but excessive intake can lead to health issues, so it's important to consume it in moderation.
Zinc: Involved in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Meat, dairy products, nuts, and whole grains are good sources.
Copper: Necessary for the formation of red blood cells and maintenance of the immune system. Seafood, nuts, seeds, and whole grains contain copper.
Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant and is important for thyroid function. Seafood, meat, poultry, and Brazil nuts are good sources.
Iodine: Essential for thyroid function and the production of thyroid hormones. Seafood, dairy products, and iodized salt are common sources.
Manganese: Involved in bone formation, blood clotting, and reducing inflammation. Whole grains, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables contain manganese.

Aradhya Dwivedi