Tag: Mineral

With approximately 99% of the body's calcium stored in the bones and teeth, this essential mineral is vital for structural support and numerous biological functions. Our bodies cannot produce their own supply, so understanding where can calcium be obtained is crucial for maintaining overall health. This guide explores the extensive range of sources available to meet your daily needs.

According to the National Institutes of Health, bakery products contribute 10% of total phosphorus intake in the United States, highlighting the relevance of understanding how much phosphorus is in cookies. This mineral is present from both natural ingredients and, significantly, from phosphate-based additives used in many processed and commercially prepared varieties.

While there is no single, universally recommended ratio of calcium to protein, research shows these nutrients work synergistically for optimal health, especially for bone integrity. Historically, a high-protein diet was thought to harm bones, but recent studies suggest that with adequate calcium intake, protein can actually enhance bone metabolism. Understanding this complex relationship is key to a balanced diet.

An estimated 98% of the kalium in your body is found within your cells, where this vital mineral orchestrates numerous functions essential for human life. As an electrolyte, kalium is a key player in maintaining proper fluid balance and ensuring that your nerves and muscles function correctly.

According to a 2018 study, nearly half of Americans consume less magnesium than recommended. While often mistakenly called a vitamin, the mineral magnesium is a critical cofactor in over 300 enzymatic reactions in your body, impacting everything from nerve function to bone health.

Sodium chloride, or salt, has been used as a food preservative for centuries because it inhibits microbial growth. While pure salt itself is a highly stable mineral that does not spoil, many common salt products contain additives that can degrade over time. This creates a distinction between pure sodium chloride and the packaged salts found in grocery stores when considering the question: does sodium chloride actually expire?

By definition, vitamins are organic compounds, while minerals are inorganic elements, a fundamental distinction that clarifies a common misconception. Despite its vital importance, the definitive answer to the question, "is zinc a vitamin?", is no; zinc is an essential trace mineral.

According to the National Institutes of Health, while not classified as an essential nutrient, boron is a vital trace mineral found in many plant foods that supports important bodily functions. Discover what fruit contains high levels of boron and how to boost your intake naturally through diet.

According to the National Institutes of Health, many people in the US, particularly older adults and teens, do not meet their daily recommended calcium intake. While deficiency is a common concern, this raises an important question: can calcium be harmful if consumed in excess? The answer is yes, as excessively high levels can lead to a condition known as hypercalcemia, which can have several negative health consequences.

Over 500 zinc-dependent enzymes are active within the human body, a clear indication of how interdependent our micronutrient functions are. This complex relationship extends to vitamin B, where a range of minerals and other vitamins serve as vital cofactors, enabling the B-complex vitamins to perform their critical functions in metabolic processes, energy production, and cellular health.