- Karina Koltai
How Minerals add to your Life

Minerals play vital roles in our health and the functionality of our bodies. They work in the body to regulate homeostasis, digestion and absorption, maintain body tissue and growth, as well as function as a catalyst in releasing energy.
Here you’ll find a comprehensive resource of their benefits and where you’ll find them in nature.
Calcium- Blood clotting, nerve and muscle function, hormones, bone strength
Sources: dairy, dark leafy greens, broccoli, spirulina
Phosphorus- Helps form bones and teeth, kidney function, muscle contractions, heart function, nerve impulses
Sources: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, nuts, legumes
Magnesium- Critical element in over 300 biochemical reactions, bone mineralization, normal muscle contraction, immune system, reduces risk of blocked arteries, lowers blood pressure, prevents osteoporosis, improves sleep, prevents migraines
Sources: Brown rice, spinach, Swiss chard, peanuts, black-eyed peas, tuna, bananas
Sulfur- Builds protein, joints and connective tissue, healthy skin, nails, and hair.
Sources: Eggs, meat, poultry, fish, legumes, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms
Sodium- Maintains proper fluid balance, transmits nerve impulses, digest proteins and carbohydrates, regulates blood pressure, helps muscles relax.
Too much can cause high blood pressure, excess Sodium causes the body to retain too much water and strains the heart, blood vessels, and kidneys
Recommendations: Limit processed foods and processed meats, use sea salt
Potassium- Proper function of heart, kidney and other organs, regulates blood pressure, reduces blood clotting and risk of kidney stones
Sources: Bananas, avocados, nuts, citrus, leafy greens, potatoes, yams, legumes
Trace Minerals are no less important, they are just found in smaller amounts.
Copper- bone and cartilage development, use energy from carbohydrates, fats and proteins
Zinc- growth, tissue repair, and resistance to disease
Selenium- cell membrane integrity
Chromium- regulates blood sugar
Cobalt- red blood formation
Copper– red blood formation and connective tissue
Fluoride– healthy, strong teeth
Iodine– supports metabolism
Iron– red blood formation
Manganese- supports brain function
Molybdenum- contributes to normal growth
The best thing you can do for your body and health is to consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole foods.