Chapter 8 minerals

Acidosis

A condition characterized by an increased acidity in the blood, typically resulting from an accumulation of carbon dioxide or a loss of bicarbonate, leading to a decrease in blood pH.

Alkaline

A condition where the blood has an increased pH, indicating a lower acid concentration, often due to a loss of carbon dioxide or an excess of bicarbonate.

Alkalosis

A condition characterized by decreased acidity in the blood, typically resulting from a loss of carbon dioxide or an excess of bicarbonate, leading to an increase in blood pH.

Cardiovascular

ondition marked by increased blood pH due to excess bicarbonate or loss of carbon dioxide.

Dehydration

A condition resulting from excessive loss of body fluids, leading to an imbalance of electrolytes and potential health issues such as dizziness, dry skin, and impaired kidney function.

Demineralization

The process of losing minerals, particularly calcium and phosphate, from bones or teeth, often leading to weakened structures and an increased risk of fractures or decay.

Diuretics

Medications that promote the excretion of water and electrolytes through urine, commonly used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention.

Edema

A medical condition characterized by excess fluid accumulation in the body's tissues, leading to swelling in various parts of the body, particularly in the legs, ankles, and feet.

electrolytes

Minerals in body fluids that conduct electricity, including sodium, potassium, and chloride, essential for many bodily functions.

Enriched foods

Foods that have added nutrients to enhance their nutritional value, often including vitamins and minerals.

Etiology

The study of the cause or origin of a disease or condition, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that contribute to its development.

Extracellular

fluid that exists outside cells, containing nutrients and electrolytes vital for cellular function.

Goiter

An enlargement of the thyroid gland, often resulting from iodine deficiency or thyroid disorders, affecting metabolism and hormone production.

Heme iron

is a type of iron found in hemoglobin and myoglobin, which is more easily absorbed by the body than non-heme iron from plant sources.

Hyperkalemia

is a condition characterized by elevated levels of potassium in the blood, which can lead to serious health issues such as cardiac arrhythmias.

Hypertension

is a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

Hypokalemia

is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood, which can cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and heart irregularities.

intracellular

fluid contains a higher concentration of potassium compared to extracellular fluid, playing a crucial role in cellular functions.

Iodized salt

is table salt mixed with a small amount of potassium iodide to prevent iodine deficiency.

Ions

are charged particles that can be either positively or negatively charged, essential for various biochemical processes in the body.

iron deficiency

is a condition resulting from insufficient iron levels in the body, leading to reduced hemoglobin production and anemia.

iron deficiency anemia

is a form of anemia caused specifically by a lack of iron in the body. This condition results in decreased production of red blood cells and hemoglobin, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Keshan disease

is a serious heart condition caused by selenium deficiency, prevalent in certain areas and leading to cardiomyopathy.

Myoglobin

is a protein found in muscle tissues that binds oxygen, facilitating oxygen storage and transport within muscles.

Nonheme iron

is a type of iron found in plant-based foods and supplements, which is not as easily absorbed by the body as heme iron found in animal sources.

Osmosis

is the movement of water molecules across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration, aiming to equalize solute concentrations on both sides.

rickets

is a disease caused by vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate deficiency, resulting in weakened and softened bones in children.

tetany

is a condition characterized by muscle cramps, spasms, and twitching, often resulting from low calcium levels in the blood.

toxicity

refers to the degree to which a substance can cause harm or damage to an organism due to its poisonous effects.