Mineral Supplements

About Mineral Supplements

Minerals are a broad range of nutrient that are essential for human health. They are termed essential because the human body cannot synthesize them. Therefore, if essential minerals are not obtained from the diet or supplements, deficiencies can develop leading to poor health outcomes.

When we consume plant food, the mineral content is determined by the soil content where the plant grew. When it comes to animal products, the mineral level is determined by the soil level where the plants grew that they consumed. These days, animals are often supplemented minerals as well given that they often become deficient. Soil deficient in a mineral, such as boron or zinc, lead to deficits in the plants that are grown in that soil, and any animal or human that consumes those plants regularly.

Six of the minerals are categorised as electrolytes, five of which are often added to sports drinks to improve hydration. These are sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and chloride. The sixth electrolyte, phosphorus, is found in low concentrations in sweat and is typically abundant in the Western diet anyway. Magnesium, an important electrolyte, has more than 300 uses in the human body! A few of these are maintaining muscular relaxation, supporting bone health and keeping neurotransmitters balanced in the brain. Another essential and often forgotten mineral is sulphur, which is naturally found in garlic, onions and whole eggs. Sulphur is needed for detoxification purposes and to support connective tissue health.

There are also a range of trace minerals that we need in smaller quantities compared to other minerals. However, the trace minerals may be equally as important for human health. Some of the trace minerals are Molybdenum, Manganese, Iron and Iodine. The uses for each of these minerals extends well beyond their typical health-association (even minerals get stereotyped). For instance, iron is typically prescribed for anemia to maintain red blood cell health. However, iron is required for many other important functions, such as supporting the immune system. Most people associate iodine with the thyroid gland only, while this essential mineral offers antioxidant effects and may protect breast and prostate tissue from damage.