Human Nutrition 3(3+0)

Lesson 33 : Minerals

Introduction

Minerals are inorganic elements which are utilized as structural components of tissue and cellular compounds, as catalysts for enzyme activity and to maintain normal osmotic and electrochemical gradients that support neuromuscular activity and cell membrane transport activity. They constitute less than 5-6 % of total body weight. Mineral elements may be required in small amounts (milligrams) or in trace amounts (micrograms). The body contains about 24 minerals, all of which must be provided by the diet. These include calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chlorine, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, fluorine, iodine, chromium, cadmium, selenium etc.