Vital Essential Minerals Needed for Total Body Health
Minerals that act as nutrients are essential to a host of processes in the human body, from the formation of bone to the functioning of the heart to the digestive system. Many are necessary for the activity of enzymes, chemical reactions that act as a catalyst in the body’s reactions. Recently scientists have been studying the importance of minerals in the diet and the link between mineral deficiencies and major chronic diseases, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, obesity, and even cancer. This research has been very promising and encouraging for people who want to improve their health by supplementing their mineral intake with vitamins. Some people feel if a little bit is good for you why not more? How much do you need anyway?
Millions of Americans are now taking a variety of mineral pills in large doses in the belief that some are good a lot is better. Most people do not need supplements if they have a good nutritious diet however some people could benefit from adding supplements to their daily regimen. Balance is key when adding minerals to your diet. The interactions between minerals, vitamins, and nutrients are so complex that taking too much of any mineral can interfere with the body’s use of other nutrients.
The key factor is not taking too little or too much for proper bodily function. According to The Academy of Sciences has issued a recommended dietary allowance of (RDA’s) just seven minerals for 5 others it has offered cautiously safe and adequate dietary intake. There is a chance of overdosing on minerals that can be fatal if taken in large doses. No one should ever self-prescribe mineral supplements taking more than is recommended.
there are several minerals that can help you lose weight. The best way to ensure an adequate supply of minerals with a few exceptions, are to eat a varied balanced diet packed full of nutrient rich foods. That way you will be getting enough fiber and nutrients your body can utilize for energy and vital bodily function.
The Connection between Mineral Deficiencies – Weight Gain & Fatigue
Many people today are eating processed foods that have been stripped of vital nutrients, fiber and minerals leaving a huge population of individuals internally starving for nutrients. Disease’s diabetes, heart disease, insulin intolerance, osteoporosis, cancers, and obesity are directly attributed to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Malnutrition has become part of our fast past society and is directly responsible for the health decline of many men, women, and children Decline in nutrient values in our food supply over the past 50 years is due to commercial farming and pesticides leaving our food source void of the essential minerals and vitamins to need in our diet.
Overweight people who have been suffering from gross malnutrition and fiber deficiencies can develop serious diseases. Weight gain in individuals generally has less fiber in their diet due to eating more processed food that has had the fiber, minerals, and vitamins removed. Excessive calorie intake can create insulin resistance and magnesium deficiencies from eating too much junk food and not enough organic fruits and vegetables.
When the dieter starves their body of vital nutrients you are also starving your brain. Your metabolism slows to an all-time low working less effectively at burning calories. Your brain tells you to eat more food to replenish your reserves. Obese people usually have hyperinsulinemia (high levels of insulin) in their blood causing fat to be stored in fat cells. Obese people cannot satisfy their body’s demands for energy and nutrients by eating. In this scenario, people are left with malnutrition, stress, hunger and weight gain due to internal starvation. Syndrome X also was known as metabolic Syndrome is leptin residence, insulin resistance, and glucose intolerance. All are precursors to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
Eating a diet high in carbohydrates and proceed foods will actually make you hungry and wanting more of the same. Changing your diet by adding lean proteins and organic foods will give your body the nutrients and minerals you need for digestion and good health.
Magnesium is an essential mineral that is vital to using and utilizing nutrients in the body. Without magnesium, the body cannot process the carbohydrates, proteins, and fats we eat every day. When we don’t get what we need from our diet we crave more food. Adding magnesium in your diet helps your body by supporting leptin levels and nutrient absorption of the food you eat. By activating hundreds of enzymes in the body, magnesium helps you to be more satisfied with the food you eat and crave less junk food.
How To Get More Magnesium In Our Diet?
Eating a diet rich in magnesium is a great way to help you lose weight and control insulin levels. The top magnesium-rich foods are spinach 1 cup 157 milligrams (40% DV), Chard 1 cup milligrams (154 milligrams (38% DV), Pumpkin Seeds 1/8 cup 92 milligrams (23% DV), yogurt-kefir 1 cup 50 milligrams (13% DV), Almonds 1 ounce 80 milligrams (20%DV), black beans ½ cup 60 milligrams (15% DV). Adding an assortment of foods containing magnesium can benefit your health and help you lose weight.
Minerals Basic Elements and How They Are Used
Minerals are basic elements of the earth’s crust and in comparison to vitamins, they are inorganic matter. (They contain no carbon) minerals are carried into the ground soil, water and into the sea by erosion. The minerals are taken up by plants and animals and then eaten by people. The minerals in food are stable and easily absorbed by the body however if you boil your food some of the minerals can dissolve into the water and be discarded. Minerals can also be processed out of food as in the refinement of making flour and other processed foods.
There are more than sixty minerals in the body making up 4% of its weight, but only 22% are considered essential for good health. Of these seven minerals chlorine, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus and sulfur are called microminerals because they are found in relatively large amounts in the body. Other essential materials are deemed trace or ultra-trace nutrients due to the minute quantities.
Minerals and trace minerals are the building blocks of life and are the most basic of nutrients and are the bonding agents between you and your food. (Allowing your body to absorb nutrients) minerals are needed by everyone for good health and active life. Minerals are especially necessary for athletes and active individuals that engage in sports because you must have minerals to run. All the minerals together makeup 4% of the body weight and is responsible for major areas of human health. Minerals keep the body PH balance – alkaline instead of acid.
The Benefits of Minerals
- Minerals keep the body PH balanced instead of acidic
- Minerals are essential for bone formation
- Minerals are vital for food digestion and help reduce weight gain
- Minerals regulate osmosis of cellular fluids electrical activity in the nervous system
- Minerals assist in most metabolic functions
- Minerals transport oxygen through the system and regulate the heart rhythm
- Minerals help regulate sleep patterns
- Minerals are principal factors in emotional and mental balance
- Minerals regulate insulin levels and help you regulate you weight
- Minerals Are essential for bone formation and good metabolism promoting weight loss
Minerals cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through water, mineral baths or food. Replenishing your body on a daily basis to keep your mineral levels in balance. Minerals from herbs and plants have a higher quality and are easier to absorb in the digestive system. They work optimally in the body’s enzyme production and process assimilation of nutrients. High-stress lifestyles that rely on tobacco, alcohol, steroids, antibiotics, and other drugs contribute to mineral depletion.
To make matters worse many minerals and trace minerals are no longer sufficiently present in our fruits and vegetables. They have been leached out of the soil by chemicals, fertilizers used in commercial farming, and sprays and pesticides on the produce. Research shows that testing on fruits and vegetables shows a measurable amount of mineral competition has a lower quality and quantity than we are led to believe because testing was done decades ago when pesticides were not as prolific as they are now.
Minerals can give your body a great boost in your energy and good health. For mineral strength, eat organically grown produce whenever possible and take a high-quality herb or recommended amount mineral supplement.
Organically grown produce is expensive and hard to obtain high quality on a regular basis in some areas and supermarkets. Because of this herbs have become a reliable way of obtaining valuable minerals through food. Herbs are whole foods that the body recognizes and is easily digested in the body. Mineral concentration in herbs is high and can be used for medicinal purposes as well as obtaining good nutrient levels in the body. Unlike partitioned or chemically formed supplements the minerals in herbs are cumulatively active in the body providing a strong solid base.
7 Of The Most Essential Minerals and Trace Minerals
Magnesium– is the critical mineral for osteoporosis and the skeptical formation of bone. This vital mineral is necessary for healthy blood vessels, balanced pressure, nerve, and muscle function. Athletes need extra magnesium for strength endurance and exercise capabilities. It is an important part of the tooth, bone formation, restful sleep, and heart and kidney health. Counteracts irregular heartbeat, stress, nerves, emotional instability, and depression. Calms hyperactive children.
Supplemental success with the treatment of alcoholism, asthma, and diabetes. Magnesium is a cofactor for the absorption and metabolism of carbohydrates, Vitamins C, B complex, and other minerals. Eating the correct amount of magnesium and helps maintain normal body weight and will give you more energy. Deficiencies result in muscle cramping, spasms, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Effective food sources: Nuts, legumes, seafood, whole grains, dairy foods, dark green vegetables. Herbs that contain magnesium are: Alfalfa, Blue Cohosh, Carrot Leaves, Cayenne, Dandelion, Dill, Kelp, Peppermint, Primrose, Walnut leaves, Nettle, Wintergreen.
Calcium– According to The National Institute of Health calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and need vitamin D for good absorption and is necessary for the synthesis of vitamin B-12. Works with phosphorus to form bone and teeth with magnesium for skeletal strength and cardiovascular health. Prevents low blood pressure, helps blood clotting, muscle cramping, maintains nervous system health, controls anxiety, depression, and ensures good quality sleep. Helps prevent osteoporosis and colon cancer.
Aluminum based anti-acids interfere with calcium absorption. Cortical steroids and antibiotic drugs increase the need for more calcium. The best calcium for absorption is calcium citrate on record. (Calcium Citrate is the calcium salt of calcium) and is used in food as a flavor or preservative and is in the class of minerals and electrolytes. Effective food source shellfish, Plantain, green leafy vegetables, milk and dairy products, tofu, sea vegetables, and molasses. Herbs that contain calcium are Chives, Chamomile, Caraway seed, Dill, Dandelion, Nettle, Parsley, Silverweed, Yellow dock, Horsetail.
Potassium– is an electrolyte mineral found in the body fluids and balances the acid/ alkaline system, transmits electrical signals between cells and nerves and enhances athletic performance. Works with sodium to regulate the body’s water balance. Potassium is necessary for good heart health (stroke and hypertension) Normal energy storage, brain function, muscle function, nerve stability, the production of vital enzymes and hormones. Helps oxygenate the brain for clear thinking and controls allergic reactions.
Deficiencies in potassium can be caused by stress, hypoglycemia, diarrhea, and actuate mental anxiety. One of the best ways to restore potassium balance is a vegetable broth made from organically grown vegetables and is one of the greatest natural healing tools available for returned energy and cleansing. Effective food sources are: lean poultry, fish, dried fruit, seeds, legumes, whole grains, dairy foods, organic vegetables. Herbs that contain potassium are: Alfalfa, Blue Cohosh, Birch, Chamomile, Comfrey, Dandelion, Dulse, Fennel, nettle, Parsley, Peppermint, Primrose, and Wintergreen.
Chlorine- naturally occurring chlorine stimulates the liver activity, gastric juices and soothes joint tendon operation. This mineral is an important electrolyte that helps maintain body fluid osmotic pressure and acid/ alkaline balance. Effective food sources: seaweed, plantain, kelp, salt, and seafood. Herbs that contain chlorine are: parsley, Alfalfa, Dandelion, Dill stems, Fennel stems, Goldenseal, Myrrh, Nettles, Uva ursi, Raspberry, Watercress, and Wintergreen.
Sodium– an electrolyte that helps regulates kidney and bodily fluids. How much salt do you really need for optimal health? According to The American Heart Association, the average person should aim to eat no more than 1,500 milligrams of sodium per day. That level is associated with a reduction in high blood pressure and as a result which in turn reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Here are the approximate amounts of table salt by measurements, ¼ teaspoon = 575 mg of sodium, ½ teaspoon = 1,150 mg of sodium, 3/4 teaspoon = 1,725 mg of sodium, 1 teaspoon = 2,300 mg of sodium. We need some sodium in our diets for proper bodily function however too much sodium could be harmful and can be involved with high blood pressure only when calcium and phosphorus are deficient in the body. Beneficial food sources are: seafood, celery, sea vegetables, dairy products, and cheese. Herbs that contain sodium are Apple tree bark, Alfalfa, Dandelion, Dulse, Fennel, nettle, Parsley, Thyme, and Dill.
Phosphorus is the second most abundant mineral in the body. Occurs in the ratio balance with calcium and is necessary for the formation of skeletal teeth, bone info structures, cell reproduction, and brain oxidization. Increases muscle performance while decreasing muscle fatigue and helps maintains acid/ alkaline balance. Excessive antacids deplete Phosphorus in the body. Effective food sources: eggs, dairy products, organ meats, legumes, nuts, fish, and poultry. Herbs that contain Phosphorus are Alfalfa, Blue Cohosh, Cayenne, Dandelion, Nettle, Calamus, Caraway, Chickweed, Garlic, Burdock, Rosehips, Watercress, Yellow dock, Parsley.
Sulpher is considered the beauty mineral for smooth skin and glossy hair, hard nails, and collagen synthesis. It is critical for protein absorption and part of many amino acids. Vital amino acids are made from sulfur and used to create protein for cells tissue and hormone, antibodies, production and enzymes for digestion. This mineral is put in joint formulas in combination with Chondroitin Sulfate, Glucosamine Sulfate, MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) and is used for the treatment of joint disease.
Sulfur is the third most concentrated mineral in the body’s muscles, skin, and bone and is essential for life. Effective food sources are onions, garlic, eggs, Kelp, fish, hot peppers, and horseradish. Herbs that contain Sulphur are Alfalfa, Cayenne, Nettle, Coltsfoot, and burdock, Parsley, Sage, Fennel, Garlic and Irish moss.
8 Signs of Mineral Deficiencies
- Mineral deficiencies can cause serious conditions that affect your digestion and health according to the University of Maryland Center
- Magnesium deficiencies include muscle cramps, body odor, and constipation, insomnia, headaches and fatigue.
- Phosphorus deficiencies include loss of appetite, bone pain, stiff joints, fragile bones, numbness, weight change, fatigue, irregular breathing, anxiety, and irritability
- Zinc deficiencies include growth development problems, hair loss, diarrhea, impotence, eye and skin conditions, loss of appetite, weight loss, delayed wound healing
- Calcium deficiencies include depression, confusion, poor muscle contractions, poor blood clotting, heart function, mood changes according to LivingStrong.com
- Iron deficiencies include symptoms of anemia, feeling cold, difficulty breathing, dizziness, headaches and feeling tired.
- Potassium deficiencies include weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps and constipation
- Selenium Deficiencies include symptoms of hypothyroidism, tiredness, lethargy, hair loss, slowed heartbeat, intolerance to cold, dry scaly skin, constipation, menstrual irregularities, inability to concentrate, poor mood and depression.
Changing your diet can make a huge impact on your health and help you lose weight. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is advised you get your vitamins from organic whole foods herbs, vegetable and fruits Adding foods rich in minerals and vitamins will transform the way your body process the food you eat on daily basis. Look and feel your best on the right diet.
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Patricia Lynn
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