Minerals

Describe the differences between macrominerals and microminerals

Macrominerals – required in amounts ≥ 100 mg/day. Examples: calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, sodium, chloride, magnesium; . Microminerals – required in amounts < 100 mg/day. Examples: iron, copper, manganese, iodine

Describe the process of blood calcium regulation when blood calcium becomes low

Parathyroid hormone stimulates the activation of vitamin D. Vitamin D and parathyroid hormone stimulate calcium reabsorption in the kidneys. Vitamin D enhances calcium absorption. Vitamin D and parathyroid hormone stimulate osteoclast cells to break down bone releasing calcium

What are the functions of calcium in the body?

nerve conduction, muscle contraction, hormone regulation, blood clotting

Identify at least 3 good dietary sources of calcium.

dairy, canned sardines, salmon with bones, turnip greens, broccoli, green leafy veggies except spinach

List 3 modifiable and 3 non-modifiable risk factors for osteoporosis.

More prevalent in people >50 years; prevention: balanced diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D, exercise, no smoking, limit alcohol

What are the primary functions of magnesium

Cofactor in >300 enzyme reactions; Regulates DNA/RNA synthesis and nerve conduction.

What are the primary functions of phosphorus

Part of ATP (energy molecule); Component of DNA and RNA; Part of phospholipids in membranes; Helps maintain acid-base balance.

What are the primary functions of sulfur in the body?

Found in amino acids methionine and cysteine; Component of glutathione (antioxidant); No known deficiency in humans.

Identify 3 dietary sources of magnesium.

green leafy vegetables, unpolished grains, nuts, legumes, whole grain cereals and breads, chocolate

What minerals are involved with bone health?

calcium, phosphorus

What is the primary storage form of sulfur in the body?

glutathionine

Identify the role of iron in the body.

Oxygen transport

List the type of food sources (ie. animal or plant) that contain heme vs. non-heme iron.

heme:meat, fish, poultry; non-heme: beans, leafy vegetables, dried fruit, enriched cereal

Describe absorption of iron in the body

Hemoglobin picks up O2 from the lungs and brings it to the tissue, where it then picks up CO2_ to bring to the lungs for removal.

What factors can increase and what factors decrease iron absorption?

vitamin C increases; phytates, tannins, calcium

What form of iron is most easily absorbed?

heme

Identify individuals with increased iron requirements.

pregnant ppl and women

Identify the leading nutrient deficiency worldwide.

Zinc

What are potential causes of anemia?

inadequate iron intake/absorption, copper deficiency, blood loss

List the blood tests used to screen for anemia. Which is the most sensitive to low ironStores?

Hemoglobin; Hematocrit; Ferritin; Transferrin saturation

What is the condition associated with iron toxicity? What is the cause of this condition?

homochromatosis; inability to regulate the amount of iron absorbed

What factor(s) hinder zinc absorption and what factor(s) enhance zinc absorption?

hinder:phytates,fiber // enhances: animal based protein

What are two symptoms of zinc toxicity and deficiency

limited growth

Identify the primary function of copper in the body.

Cofactor for enzymes in iron metabolism, antioxidant defense, connective tissue formation, iron use, antioxidant defense, synthesis of neurotransmitters

What other mineral may hinder copper absorption?

zinc

What is the primary role of iodine in the body?

: Component of thyroid hormones (T3 & T4); regulates metabolism.

What may occur if an individual becomes iodine deficient?

goiter

List 2 common dietary sources of iodine.

seafood, iodized salt

What is the primary function of selenium in the human body?

Part of glutathione peroxidase (antioxidant enzyme). Supports thyroid hormone activation.