Mineral Salts
Mineral salts are inorganic compounds. They do not provide energy to the body. However, they are required for the normal chemical activities of the body. Man can obtain them from animals or plants which absorb them from the soil. Some minerals are needed by man and mammals in relatively large quantities, other are required in very small quantities.
Trace Elements
The mineral required by organisms in minute quantity are called Trace Elements.
Few Important Minerals
Calcium, Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium, Chlorine, Iron, Phosphorous and iodine etc.
Role of Minerals
Sodium Chloride
It helps to make hydrochloric acid in the stomach which is very important for the digestion of food. Along with potassium it helps to conduct messages through nerves.
Potassium
It is found in the living cells especially in the red blood cells and muscles and it helps in the growth of the organism. The body acquires it through cereals.
Magnesium
It is an important component of the bones. It is obtained by eating different vegetables. It helps the enzymes which control different metabolic reaction.
Calcium
It plays an important role in strengthening the bones and teeth. It helps in blood clotting, muscular contraction and in the conduction of nerve impulse. It is found in milk, eggs, fruit, cereals and green leafy vegetables.
Iron
It is very important mineral. It helps in making hemoglobin in the red blood cells. It occurs in meat, liver, eggs, peanuts, spinach and other vegetables.
Flourine
It helps in the growth and development of the bones and teeth. If it is mixed in drinking water in suitable amounts, dental decay (caries) can be reduced in children. The body can obtain this mineral from vegetables and fish.
Note: In addition to these mineral trace elements like cobalt, manganese, zinc and copper are also necessary for the better health of the human body.
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