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Minerals
Minerals are substances that are necessary for good health but cannot be synthesised or made by the body. Minerals have many functions in the body and actively play a role in regulating a wide range of physiological functions. These can include growth and maintenance, uptake of oxygen into the cells and are also needed for the proper synthesis of vitamins.
Minerals are divided into two main groups - macro mineral, those we need in large amounts and trace elements or micro-nutrients, that we require in smaller amounts. As a general rule trace elements are those that we require at levels of less than 15mg daily.
Many people choose to take mineral supplements as a top up to their daily diet or for a specific health problem. Modern farming methods, food storage and cooking can all lead to a reduction in our mineral intake.
Pregnant women are often prescribed Iron to maintain good levels during their pregnancy. Anaemia, iron deficiency, is often diagnosed following a blood test and again you may be recommended an Iron supplement.
Some minerals such as Calcium play an important role in maintaining health bones, it can be difficult to obtain to obtain enough Calcium in the diet especially for post menopausal women so this is another occasion when taking a Calcium supplement is a good idea.
Some minerals can be difficult to absorb so it is important to look at the form that they are presented in the supplement, this will give you a clue as to how well the body can utilise them. You may also find relevant co factors present such as Calcium containing Vitamin D to aid absorption or Zinc with Copper to maintain a balance of these nutrients in the body.
Most multivitamin and mineral supplements are designed to give you a daily amount of these important nutrients and can be a valuable top up to your daily diet.
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