Minerals - Blog 1

What are Minerals?

• To meet the definition of "mineral" used by most geologists a substance must meet five requirements: 

1. naturally occurring
2. inorganic
3. solid
4. definite chemical composition
5. ordered internal structure

• Minerals are inorganic substances found in the foods and also in the earth. 
• Few minerals that we need to consume are Calcium, Iron, Phosphorous etc.
• Getting minerals in right amounts is essential for good health.

There are 2 categories of Minerals

1. Trace Minerals
2. Major Minerals

Trace Minerals

• Some minerals are required in  small amounts by body called TRACE Minerals. 
• If you need less than 100mg a day, that mineral is called a trace mineral.

Major Minerals

• Some minerals are required in large quantities by the body, called MAJOR Minerals.
• A major mineral is an inorganic substance that you  need everyday in amounts higher than 100mg. 

• A diet rich in green vegetables and fruits, and whole grains grown in fertile soil may afford some assurance of minerals, but much of our soil today is depleted and lacking in essential nutrients.
• Adding mineral supplements to the diet, will provide some insurance.
• Having the proper balance of minerals in the body can make the difference between disease or sickness and optimum health.

In my next blog, I will discuss in detail about each of these minerals. You can get more information regarding mineral rich foods in my coming blog.

                                                                 

                                                                                                       ....... To Be Continued