Table of Contents
Minerals Definition
Minerals are naturally occurring, inorganic, crystalline solids with a specific chemical composition and a regular atomic structure.
The Categories of Minerals
There are six categories of minerals: native elements, sulfides, oxides, halides, carbonates, and sulfates. Native elements are those that are found in their natural state, such as gold and silver. Sulfides are minerals that contain sulfur and another element, such as iron pyrite. Oxides are minerals that contain oxygen and another element, such as hematite. Halides are minerals that contain chlorine and another element, such as fluorite. Carbonates are minerals that contain carbon and another element, such as calcite. Sulfates are minerals that contain sulfur and oxygen, such as gypsum.
Importance of the Minerals in our Food
Minerals are important for human health because they are essential for many bodily functions. They are necessary for the formation of bones and teeth, the transmission of nerve impulses, the contraction of muscles, and the production of energy. Minerals also play a role in regulating fluid balance and pH levels. Some minerals, such as iodine and selenium, are also essential for thyroid function and cancer prevention.
The Function and Sources of Minerals
- Minerals are inorganic materials that are essential for human health. They are found in food and water, and are necessary for the body to function properly. Minerals are classified as macrominerals and microminerals. Macrominerals are those that the body needs in larger quantities, and include calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. Microminerals are those that the body needs in smaller quantities, and include iron, zinc, copper, and selenium.
- Minerals are essential for the body to function properly also found in food and water, and are necessary for the body to build strong bones, teeth, and muscles; to regulate heart rate and blood pressure; and to maintain a healthy metabolism. Minerals are also essential for the body to produce energy and to fight off infection.
- Minerals found in a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, meat, and milk. The best way to ensure that you are getting the minerals your body needs is to eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from all the food groups. You can also take a multivitamin or mineral supplement to ensure that you are getting the minerals you need.
Sources Minerals in Food
There are many different sources of minerals in food. Minerals found in both plant and animal foods, but not distributed evenly between the two groups. In general, animal foods tend to be richer in minerals than plant foods. This is because animals tend to absorb and store minerals more effectively than plants.
There are a few exceptions to this rule, however. For example, leafy green vegetables are a good source of calcium, while meat and dairy products are relatively low in this mineral. Other minerals, such as iron and zinc, found in both plant and animal foods in similar amounts.
The best way to ensure that you are getting enough minerals in your diet is to eat a variety of different foods. This way, you will get a variety of different minerals, and you will be less likely to miss out on any important ones.
