Nutrition is all about proteins, carbs, and fats, but minerals often get overlooked. Although they occur in small amounts, these tiny nutrients play colossal roles in keeping our bodies working like well-oiled machines.
Our in-house expert, Dt. Aparna Pandey, MSC-Nutrition and Dietetics, explains why minerals are an absolute must in our daily diet, along with some fascinating insights that might surprise you.
1. They are the Designers of Our Body
Minerals are the building blocks of life. Calcium and phosphorus, for example, together combine to form strong bones and teeth. Without adequate amounts of calcium, our bones become brittle, and without phosphorus, calcium cannot perform its work adequately.
Fun Fact: Did you know that 99% of the calcium in our body is stored in bones and teeth? The remaining 1% plays a crucial role in blood clotting and muscle function.
2. The Body’s Secret Electricians
Minerals like potassium, sodium, and magnesium act as electrical messengers in our bodies. They regulate nerve impulses, muscle contractions, and even our heartbeat. Imagine trying to send a text message without any signal—minerals ensure the body’s “signals” never drop.
Unique Insight: Your heart beats over 100,000 times a day, and minerals ensure each beat is perfectly timed!
3. Immunity Warriors
Zinc is a star mineral in the sense that it supports immunity. It promotes the formation of immune cells and accelerates healing processes in wounds. Selenium, being an antioxidant, is very powerful and combats free radicals to protect our cells from damage.
Did You Know? Just a handful of pumpkin seeds can meet over half of your daily zinc requirement.
4. Oxygen Carriers
Ever wonder how oxygen reaches every single cell in your body? It’s iron to the rescue! Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen. Without enough iron, your body feels fatigued and sluggish.
Fun Fact: The human body contains enough iron to forge a small nail—now that’s what we call functional art!
5. Mood and Mind Boosters
Magnesium and chromium are your mental health allies. Magnesium regulates neurotransmitters, which can really be important for mood and sleep, while chromium enhances insulin action, stabilizing your blood sugar levels and stopping those mood swings.
Unique Angle: Craving chocolate? It might be your body’s way of asking for magnesium!
6. Metabolism Managers
This supports the function of your thyroid, which regulates metabolism. A slow thyroid causes people to gain weight and be tired all the time; that’s why seaweed and iodized salt are so important.
Little-known Fact: Before iodized salt was added to diets worldwide, goiters-thyroid glands enlarged and causing health problems were a common occurrence.
7. Detox Dynamos
Copper and sulfur are nature’s detox agents. Copper aids in producing enzymes that neutralize harmful free radicals, while sulfur supports liver detoxification pathways.
Pro Tip: Sulfur-rich foods like garlic and onions not only detoxify but also add a punch of flavor to your meals!
How to Ensure We Are Getting Enough Minerals
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Eat a Rainbow: The best bet for a mineral-rich meal is a diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
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Mind the Soil: Do you know that the mineral content in plants depends on the soil in which they grow? Organic produce usually boasts higher mineral levels.
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Cook Smart: Minerals can be depleted with overcooking. Try steaming or roasting instead.
In a Nutshell
Minerals may not have the glamour of vitamins or the hype of superfoods, but their role in our health is irreplaceable. They quietly power everything from your heartbeat to your brain waves. So, the next time when you are planning your meals, give these unsung heroes the spotlight they deserve. After all, sometimes, the smallest things make the biggest difference. To get customized diet plan – CLICK HERE.
