Just like vitamins, minerals play an integral part of our overall health. In order for our bodily cells, tissues, and organs to function properly, we need to get enough minerals on a daily or weekly basis. Failure to do so might result in the development of various deficiencies and unpleasant pathological conditions.
From a nutritional point of view, minerals can be divided into major minerals and trace minerals. The former category represents nutrients that are needed in larger quantities, whereas the latter covers minerals which are needed only in small amounts.
In the following lines we are going to make you acquainted with the various minerals and will offer you tips on how best to get them.
What are the minerals?
As previously mentioned, minerals can be categorised as major and trace minerals. Both types are important for human health, and differ only in the amounts needed by the body. Unfortunately, a large number of the UK population suffers from various mineral deficiencies. These are mainly caused by poor nutrition, unhealthy lifestyle and inadequate mineral supplements intake.
Major minerals
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Chloride
- Sodium
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Sulphur
Trace minerals
- Zinc
- Chromium
- Iron
- Copper
- Selenium
- Fluoride
- Manganese
- Iodine
- Molybdenum
How to get the minerals our body needs?
In order to make sure you get all the minerals your body needs, you need to pay closer attention to your eating habits, way of living, and supplementation. For instance, diets high in salt, sugar, and saturated fats have been linked to a higher percentage of mineral deficiency among the population of the United Kingdom. The same is true for those who engage in smoking or alcohol overconsumption.
Below are 3 tips on how to easily get the minerals your body needs:
3 tips on getting enough mineral nutrients
- Healthy nutrition – make sure you eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, pulses, nuts and seeds. Avoid junk foods, sweets, and heavily processed products. Drink enough water during the day – at least 2 litres. Wherever possible, eat the food in a raw or lightly processed state.
- Healthy lifestyle – make sure you fit in enough physical activity into your weekly schedule. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) we need to exercise for at least 30 – 60 minutes a day, 4 – 5 days a week. Quit smoking and drink alcohol in moderation. Get enough sleep – at least 8 hours a night.
- Supplementation – taking mineral supplements is vital for the maintenance of an adequate mineral balance in our bodies. The dosage varies, depending on various factors, such as age, gender, and lifestyle. For instance, women and vegans are more prone to iron deficiencies, whereas elderly individuals might need to increase their calcium intake to prevent age-related bone loss.
Conclusion
MInerals are important for the maintenance of optimal health. This is why you should make sure you get enough of them on a daily basis. To achieve that, you need to improve your eating patterns, make healthier lifestyle choices, and get adequate mineral supplementation, according to your personal circumstances.
Before you consider taking any supplements, make sure you seek advice from a specialist and only purchase from a reputable distributor, such as Natural Herbs Market. Stay healthy and enjoy life!
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