Mineral Supplements
Minerals are naturally occurring elements that originate from the earth and cannot be manufactured by the body. We obtained minerals from plant and animal foods, however, they are imported. Plants get minerals from soil and animals get minerals by consuming plants. Minerals can also be obtained from the water we drink, but it varies in mineral content. This is because soil varies in mineral content geographically. As such, plant and animal food sources can also vary in mineral content from place to place.
No nutrient is an island unto itself and, as such, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, and essential fatty acids are all needed for either activation or function. Minerals are stored primarily in our body's bone and muscle tissues, and as such, toxicity is possible if extreme large quantities are consumed. Therefore, one should always follow the recommended dosages listed on the label when taking mineral supplements for optimum health.
Unlike vitamins, minerals are inorganic elements, meaning that they are not produced by plants and animals. Like vitamins, minerals function as coenzymes, enabling our bodies to perform life-sustaining functions, including energy production, growth, and healing. It's important to note that coenzymes assist enzymes and because all enzyme activities require minerals, minerals are essential for the proper utilization of vitamins as well as other nutrients.
It's important to note that nutritional biochemistry is far more complex than most people may realize. For example, zinc cannot function without vitamin B6, nor can some enzymes be made without it. Selenium is the synergist for vitamin E, meaning if you're taking a vitamin E supplement but you are selenium-deficient, you will not reap the full benefits from vitamin E.
Mineral Supplement Benefits
Some minerals are needed in smaller amounts than others, but they are all equally important. The body uses minerals to perform many different functions--from the formation of blood and bone to maintaining healthy nerve function to the regulation of muscle tone, including that of the muscles of the cardiovascular system. In addition, they are needed for the proper composition of body fluids.
The human body must maintain its proper chemical balance and, as such, this balance depends on the levels of different minerals in the body and especially the ratios of certain minerals to another. Put simply, they all work together as a team--in balance and synergistically. Therefore, a deficiency in even one mineral can lead to illness. If your diet is not providing you with an adequate measure of all these vital nutrients, mineral supplements is necessary. While some experts claim that it is possible to get all the required amount of nutrients from food alone, it has become more difficult due to modern day farming practices and processed foods.
Precautions for Mineral Supplements
It is important to note that dietary supplements are not strictly regulated in the U.S. and, as such, some lesser manufacturers do not have to prove the safety, effectiveness, or even the true content of their products. Although supplements should be labeled properly, many aren't, so what's stated on the label may not be in the container. The potency or purity may be inconsistent or misrepresented. Some products tested also contained very harmful contaminates!
Choosing Mineral Supplements
Select mineral supplements that use the chelated form. Chelation is a process that binds fatty acids or amino acids to a mineral, which aids absorption into the body. Minerals work in balance and synergistically, so it's critical that you look for supplements formulated by a scientist with top notch credentials. Mineral supplements should always be taken in balanced amounts.
Consult with your primary health care provider about the safety of using mineral supplements for your individual concerns, including drug interactions or effects on medical conditions. Remember that label claims on products can be vague and hint at claims that are unsubstantiated. Take time to read the label carefully, and do not hesitate to ask the manufacturer for additional information.
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Informational note: The data presented on our health and nutrition website is for educational purposes only. Though we stive to be accurate in all of the information we present, it should not be taken as medical advice. NSC always recommends consulting your physician before beginning or modifying any diet or exercise program.
