Minerals and Their Functions

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to minerals, their functions, sources, and interactions in the body.

Minerals

Inorganic elements involved in body structure and regulation.

Major minerals

Required in amounts greater than 100 milligrams daily in the diet.

Trace minerals

Required in amounts less than 100 milligrams daily in the diet.

Bioavailability

The degree to which a nutrient is absorbed and available for use by the body.

Oxalic acid

A compound found in dark green leafy vegetables that can decrease the absorption of certain minerals.

Phytic acid (phytate)

A substance found in grain fiber that binds to minerals and interferes with their absorption.

Calcium (Ca)

A major mineral necessary for teeth and bone structure, blood clotting, nerve impulse transmission, and muscle contraction.

Iron (Fe)

A trace mineral essential for hemoglobin in red blood cells and for preventing anemia.

Sodium (NaCl)

Essential for fluid balance and nerve impulse transmission; commonly over-consumed in North America.

Potassium (K)

Important for fluid control inside cells, nerve impulse transmission, and muscle contractions.

Hemochromatosis

A genetic condition that leads to increased iron absorption and can cause organ damage.

Zinc (Zn)

A trace mineral important for DNA synthesis, wound healing, and overall growth.

Selenium (Se)

An important antioxidant involved in thyroid hormone metabolism.

Iodide (I)

Essential for thyroid hormone synthesis and preventing goiter.

Copper (Cu)

A trace mineral important for the metabolism of iron and immune functions.

Fluoride (F)

Prevents tooth decay and strengthens bone structure.

Chromium (Cr)

Enhances glucose transport across cells and may be involved in cholesterol synthesis.

Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet

A method to naturally decrease sodium consumption and lower high blood pressure.

Anemia

A condition resulting from iron deficiency characterized by pale skin, fatigue, and poor temperature regulation.