There are over 60 trace minerals required by the human body to function correctly, and 72 trace minerals in all (verified) with another 18 still to be incorporated and named by science. They are called trace minerals because we need small amounts of each of them, typically less than 100mg per day, yet they are crucial for our well-being and often overlooked.
Experts estimate that 90 percent of Americans suffer from mineral imbalance and deficiency.
If you are one of them—whether because of frequent exercise, stress, or a diet of overly refined, nutrient-poor foods—your body will attempt to correct the situation in futility, usually resulting in food cravings, muscle cramps, and general fatigue
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll tell you what each of the most vital trace minerals does for your body and what a deficiency may lend itself to.
A Look at The Trace Minerals
Magnesium is one of the most important minerals in your body, and it plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including protein synthesis and energy metabolism. It also helps with nerve and muscle function and supports a healthy immune system. A magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle cramps, anxiety, high blood pressure, and even osteoporosis.
Chloride is essential for fluid balance in your body, and it helps with digestion. It is also part of hydrochloric acid, which is crucial for breaking down food in your stomach. A deficiency in chloride can lead to muscle cramps, weakness, and nausea.
Potassium is another crucial mineral that supports proper muscle and nerve function, helps maintain healthy blood pressure, and aids in the balance of fluids and electrolytes in your body. A potassium deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, and even heart arrhythmias.
Sulfate helps with the formation of connective tissues in your body, such as cartilage and skin, and also helps with detoxification. A sulfate deficiency can lead to joint pain, eczema, and other skin issues.
Sodium is essential for fluid balance and the transmission of nerve impulses in your body. It also helps with the absorption of nutrients in your small intestines. A sodium deficiency can lead to muscle cramps, nausea, and lethargy.
Boron is a mineral that helps to maintain strong bones and muscles by aiding the absorption of calcium and magnesium. It also helps with cognitive function and can improve memory and concentration. A boron deficiency can lead to weaker bones and potentially higher rates of osteoporosis.
Bromide helps with the function of your nervous system and the regulation of your thyroid gland. It can also help to alleviate stress and promote relaxation. A deficiency in bromide can lead to anxiety, irritability, and a compromised immune system.
Calcium is well-known for helping with bone density and maintenance, but it is also essential for the proper function of your heart, muscles, and nerves. A deficiency in calcium can lead to osteoporosis, muscle cramps, and even heart arrhythmias.
Carbonate is involved in the regulation of your body’s pH levels and can help buffer acid in your blood. It is also important for healthy bones and teeth. A deficiency in carbonate can lead to acidosis, which can cause fatigue and muscle weakness.
Silicon supports healthy connective tissue in your body, including bones, cartilage, blood vessels, and skin. It can also help with the absorption of calcium and other essential minerals. A silicon deficiency can lead to weaker connective tissues and bone density.
Nitrogen plays a role in protein synthesis, muscle function, and immune health. A nitrogen deficiency can lead to muscle wasting and muscle weakness.
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect your cells from damage. It is also essential for the proper function of your thyroid gland. A selenium deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, digestive issues, and thyroid problems.
Phosphorus is essential for strong bones and teeth and plays a role in protein synthesis and energy metabolism. It also helps with nerve function. A phosphorus deficiency can lead to weaker bones and teeth, muscle weakness, and even confusion.
Iodine is necessary for the proper function of your thyroid gland, which is responsible for metabolic processes in your body. It also helps to maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails. An iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism and goiter, among other issues.
Chromium helps with the regulation of your blood sugar and can help improve insulin sensitivity. It can also help with weight loss and building lean muscle mass. A deficiency in chromium can lead to high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance.
Iron is essential for the formation of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in your blood. It also helps with energy production and supports a healthy immune system. An iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, and weakness.
Manganese is important for bone health and maintenance, and it plays a role in antioxidant production, blood sugar regulation, and protein metabolism. A deficiency in manganese can lead to weaker bones, joint pain, and an increased risk of oxidative damage.
Titanium supports healthy tissue growth and helps with muscle and immune function. A deficiency in titanium can lead to bone and joint problems and muscle weakness.
Rubidium helps with the proper function of your nervous system, and it can also improve mood and concentration. A deficiency in rubidium can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and anxiety.
Cobalt helps with the formation of red blood cells, and it plays a role in energy metabolism. A deficiency in cobalt can lead to anemia and fatigue.
Copper is essential for the formation of collagen, which is important for healthy bones, skin, and connective tissues. It also helps with the absorption of iron and supports a healthy immune system. A deficiency in copper can lead to weaker bones and immune function.
Antimony supports healthy energy levels and immune function. It can also have antimicrobial properties. A deficiency in antimony can lead to fatigue and compromised immunity.
Molybdenum helps with the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids and plays a role in the detoxification of your liver. A deficiency in molybdenum can lead to muscle weakness and impaired liver function.
Strontium supports the formation of healthy bones and can help improve bone density. A deficiency in strontium can lead to weaker bones and a higher risk of osteoporosis.
Zinc is essential for wound healing, immune function, and the formation of DNA and new cells. It also plays a role in your sense of taste and smell. A deficiency in zinc can lead to delayed healing, a weaker immune system, and a compromised sense of taste or smell.
Nickel is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, and it plays a role in hormone and enzyme function. A deficiency in nickel can lead to skin problems, gastrointestinal issues, and an increased risk of infections.
Tungsten helps with the absorption of other minerals, and it plays a role in energy metabolism. It can also have antioxidant properties. A deficiency in tungsten can lead to fatigue, an increased risk of oxidative damage, and potentially weaker bones.
Scandium is involved in the formation of healthy bones and the proper function of your immune system. It can also help with tissue repair. A deficiency in scandium can lead to compromised bone health and weakened immunity.
Tin helps with the production of collagen, which is important for healthy skin, hair, and connective tissues. It can also have antifungal and antimicrobial properties. A deficiency in tin can lead to weakened connective tissues and a higher risk of infections.
Lanthanum is involved in the proper functioning of your nervous system, and it can also help with bone health. A deficiency in lanthanum can lead to impaired nerve function and weaker bones.
Yttrium supports the formation of healthy bones and proper immune function. A deficiency in yttrium can lead to weaker bones and a compromised immune system.
Silver has antimicrobial properties and can help fight against infection. A deficiency in silver can lead to a higher risk of infections.
Gallium can help with the regulation of your immune response and can also have antimicrobial properties. A deficiency in gallium can lead to a higher risk of infections and compromised immunity.
Zirconium supports healthy bone and connective tissue growth and maintenance. A deficiency in zirconium can lead to compromised bone and connective tissue health.
Vanadium helps with the regulation of your blood sugar and can improve insulin sensitivity. It can also play a role in the formation of healthy bones and teeth. A deficiency in vanadium can lead to high blood sugar levels and dental problems.
Beryllium can help with healthy lung function and has antimicrobial properties. A deficiency in beryllium can lead to respiratory issues and compromised immunity.
Tellurium plays a role in the metabolism of fats and can have antioxidant properties. It can also help with immune function. A deficiency in tellurium can lead to a higher risk of oxidative damage and weaker immunity.
Bismuth can have antimicrobial properties and can help with digestive issues. A deficiency in bismuth can lead to compromised digestive health and a higher risk of infections.
Hafnium plays a role in the formation of healthy bones, skin, and connective tissues. A deficiency in hafnium can lead to weakened connective tissues and compromised bone density.
Terbium is important for nerve function and can also have antioxidant properties. A deficiency in terbium can lead to impaired nerve function and a potentially higher risk of oxidative damage.
Europium supports the proper function of your nervous system, and it can also help with bone health. A deficiency in europium can lead to impaired nerve function and weaker bones.
Gadolinium plays a role in the formation of healthy bones, and it can help with nerve function. A deficiency in gadolinium can lead to compromised bone density and impaired nerve function.
Samarium supports healthy bone growth and maintenance. A deficiency in samarium can lead to weaker bones and an increased risk of osteoporosis.
How do you know if you have a mineral deficiency?
Blood Test: A blood test is the most common method to test for mineral deficiencies. The test entails taking a sample of blood from your vein and analyzing it in a laboratory.
Hair Analysis: Hair analysis tests can also help determine if you have a mineral deficiency. Hair stores significant amounts of minerals, and a hair analysis test can reveal the mineral content and deficiencies in your body. This test is not affected by recent dietary changes and can give you information about your mineral status over a more extended period.
Urine Test: A urine test can determine if you have mineral deficiencies, but it is crucial to note that urine tests can only detect recent mineral intake and not long-term deficiencies.
Prevention of Mineral Deficiencies:
Preventing mineral deficiencies is integral to maintaining good health. A healthy diet rich in essential nutrients can help prevent and treat mineral deficiencies. Foods such as leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, seafood, and dairy products provide essential minerals the body needs.
TRUSTED SOURCES: Supplementing with liquid trace minerals and/or using Pink Himalayan Salt which contains trance minerals is recommended daily.
Originally posted: https://sarahbarendse.com/the-benefits-of-trace-minerals-a-comprehensive-guide-on-what-they-do-for-your-body-and-what-a-deficiency-can-cause/
Author: Sarah Barendse
