Minerals

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to minerals, their functions, dietary sources, and health implications.

Macrominerals

Minerals present in greater amounts in the body; recommended intake is ≥100 mg per day.

Microminerals

Also known as trace minerals; recommended intake is <100 mg per day.

Parathyroid hormone

A hormone that regulates blood calcium levels.

Calcium

Most abundant mineral in the body, essential for bone health, muscle contraction, and nerve transmission.

Osteoporosis

Common bone disease characterized by reduced bone density and increased fracture risk.

Iron

A mineral essential for oxygen delivery in the body, found in hemoglobin.

Zinc

A micromineral vital for the function of numerous enzymes and critical for immune function.

Sulfur

A mineral important for the structure of amino acids and glutathione, a major antioxidant.

Role of Magnesium

Important for muscle relaxation, ATP stabilization, and maintenance of DNA integrity.

Phosphorus

Second most abundant mineral in the body, important for bones and energy production as ATP.

Goiter

An enlargement of the thyroid gland due to iodine deficiency.

Cretinism

A severe mental and physical developmental delay caused by iodine deficiency during pregnancy.

Selenium

An essential mineral important for antioxidant function and production of thyroid hormones.

Iron toxicity

A condition of excess iron accumulation in the body, which can cause serious health issues.

Fluorosis

A condition resulting from excessive fluoride intake, characterized by mottling of teeth.

Chromium

A mineral that enhances insulin action and improves glucose metabolism.

Calcium's role in blood clotting

Calcium is necessary to convert prothrombin into thrombin, essential for blood clot formation.

Calcium Absorption

Calcium absorption is influenced by dietary factors, including the presence of vitamin D.

Name the Macrominerals

Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, and Sulfur.

Functions of Calcium

Essential for bone health, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and blood clotting.

Functions of Phosphorus

Important for bones, energy production as ATP, and DNA/RNA structure.

Functions of Magnesium

Aids in muscle relaxation, ATP stabilization, and DNA integrity maintenance.

Functions of Sodium

Regulates fluid balance, contributes to nerve impulse transmission, and muscle contraction.

Functions of Potassium

Essential for nerve function, muscle contraction, and maintaining heart health.

Functions of Chloride

Involved in fluid balance and stomach acid production (HCl).

Functions of Sulfur

Important for amino acid structure and detoxification functions.

Conditions associated with Calcium toxicity

Hypercalcemia can cause kidney stones, nausea, and confusion.

Conditions associated with Phosphorus toxicity

Excess phosphorus may lead to calcium loss and bone health issues.

Conditions associated with Magnesium toxicity

May lead to diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping.

Conditions associated with Iron deficiency

Anemia, fatigue, and compromised immune function.

Conditions associated with Zinc deficiency

Growth retardation, hair loss, and impaired immune response.

Conditions associated with Iodine deficiency

Goiter and Cretinism.