Tag: Mineral sources

A medium-sized banana contains approximately 32 milligrams of magnesium, making it a good, though not exceptional, dietary source of this vital mineral. So, are bananas high in mg compared to other foods? The answer requires a closer look at a broader spectrum of magnesium-rich options.

Did you know that approximately 99% of your body's calcium is stored in your bones and teeth, largely in the form of calcium phosphate? This essential mineral is a fundamental component of life, appearing in both organic matter and a wide variety of industrial and commercial products.

Did you know that calcium carbonate makes up more than 4% of the Earth's crust, found in everything from geological formations to household products? If you've ever wondered which contains calcium carbonate, the answer extends far beyond just supplements, encompassing a wide array of natural, biological, and industrial sources.

While the human body contains trace amounts of over 20 different elements, consensus typically identifies nine essential trace minerals that are indispensable for human health. These microminerals play a crucial role in regulating a vast number of physiological processes, despite being needed only in minute quantities.

According to MedlinePlus, minerals are essential nutrients used by the body for many jobs, including keeping your bones, muscles, heart, and brain working properly. So, what are minerals and what is their main function in the grand scheme of human health?

Gram for gram, organ meats like liver are more nutrient-dense than most fruits, vegetables, and muscle meats. A single serving of liver is a good source of several crucial minerals, notably heme iron, copper, and zinc, which play vital roles in supporting energy levels, immune function, and overall health.

According to data from the National Institutes of Health, a single 3-ounce serving of raw Eastern oysters delivers an astounding 32 mg of zinc, which equates to nearly 300% of the recommended daily value. This exceptional concentration makes oysters the undisputed leader in zinc content among all aquatic life.

According to the National Institutes of Health, one large egg typically contains between 24 and 31 micrograms (mcg) of iodine, with the majority of this mineral concentrated in the yolk. This means two large eggs can provide a moderate and beneficial portion of the daily recommended intake for an average adult.

According to the National Institutes of Health, a single ¾ cup serving of plain, nonfat Greek yogurt provides approximately 87 mcg of iodine, fulfilling a substantial portion of the average adult's daily requirement. This makes Greek yogurt a highly effective and accessible food source for this essential trace mineral, crucial for thyroid function and overall metabolic health.

While broccoli is celebrated as a nutritious powerhouse, it is not a prime source of selenium; a single cup of raw broccoli provides only a small percentage of the daily recommended value. The mineral content is also highly dependent on the soil in which it was grown, making it an unreliable source for this essential trace mineral.