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Chapter: Biochemistry: Integration of Metabolism: Cellular Signaling

What are minerals?

Minerals, in the nutritional sense, are inorganic substances required in theionic or free-element form for life processes.

What are minerals?

Minerals, in the nutritional sense, are inorganic substances required in theionic or free-element form for life processes. The macrominerals (those needed in the largest amounts) are sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium. The required amounts of all these minerals, except calcium, can easily be satisfied by a normal diet. Deficiencies of calcium can, and frequently do, occur. 

Calcium deficiencies can lead to bone fragility, with concomitant risk of fracture, which is a problem especially for elderly women. Calcium supplements are indicated in such cases. Requirements for some microminerals (trace minerals) are not always clear. It is known, for example, from biochemical evidence that chromium is necessary for glucose metabolism (a role that has recently been suggested for chromium picolinate) and that manganese is necessary for bone formation, but no deficiencies of these elements have been recorded. Requirements have been established for iron, copper, zinc, iodide, and fluoride; there are DVs for all of these minerals except fluoride. In the case of copper and zinc, needs are easily met by dietary sources, and overdoses can be toxic. A deficiency of iodide, leading to an enlarged thyroid gland, has been a problem in some parts of the United States for many years. Iodized salt is used to prevent this deficiency, and it has become unusual to find table salt without an iodine supplement. Fluoride is administered to prevent tooth decay in children and, with that end in mind, has been added to water supplies, sometimes causing considerable controversy. Iron is important because it is part of the structure of the ubiquitous heme proteins. Women of childbearing age are more susceptible to iron deficiencies than are other segments of the population, and in some cases supplements are advised. These recommended levels vary with the age of the individual and are subject to adjustment for level of activity.


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