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Blog Minerals are inorganic nutrients that the body cannot produce on its own and must be taken from outside. The properties of minerals are defined by the fact that although they do not provide energy, they are indispensable for the maintenance of cellular order, strengthening of bone structure and healthy progress of metabolic processes. Many biological reactions necessary for human health depend on the presence of minerals.
What is a Mineral?
Minerals are elements found in nature and play a regulatory or structural role in living organisms. The question “What are minerals?” covers a broad group ranging from calcium to iodine, and since these substances cannot be synthesised in the body, they must be taken in through food and drinking water.
General Properties of Minerals
Minerals are inorganic nutrients that are necessary for the healthy functioning of the human body but do not provide energy. Metabolic balance, cellular activities and inter-system harmony largely depend on adequate and balanced intake of minerals. Mineral properties can be explained as follows:
- The minerals are heat-resistant and are not completely destroyed during cooking.
- It helps to maintain the acid-base balance in the body and keeps the internal environment stable.
- It contributes to the regular functioning of the muscular and nervous system by taking part in muscle contraction and nerve conduction processes.
- It supports the activation of many enzymes and hormones and ensures healthy metabolic reactions.
- Although they do not provide energy, they help regulate the efficient use of energy from food by the body.
- Since they cannot be synthesised by the body, they must be taken in through food and drinking water.
- Since their absorption occurs in interaction with vitamins and other minerals, a balanced diet is of great importance.
- In cases of deficiency or excess, various metabolic disorders may occur.
Minerals are among the basic elements that ensure the harmonious functioning of body systems. Meeting the daily need in a balanced and adequate manner is critical for maintaining metabolic balance and long-term health.
What are Macro Minerals (Main Minerals)?
Macro minerals are minerals that are found in higher amounts in the body and have a high daily requirement. These minerals are especially necessary for bone structure, fluid balance and muscle function.
Calcium (Ca)
Calcium plays a fundamental role in maintaining bone and dental health. It is also required for muscle contraction and nerve transmission. Inadequate intake can lead to a decrease in bone density in the long term.
Magnesium (Mg)
Magnesium is effective on energy production and muscle relaxation. Supports nervous system functions. Muscle cramps and fatigue can be seen in its deficiency.
Sodium (Na)
Sodium regulates the fluid balance in the body. It provides transmission between nerve cells. Excessive consumption is associated with blood pressure problems.
Potassium (K)
Potassium contributes to the regulation of heart rhythm. Maintains intracellular fluid balance. Deficiency can lead to muscle weakness.
Phosphorus (P)
Phosphorus is involved in bone and tooth structure together with calcium. It is an important mineral in energy metabolism.
Chlorine (Cl)
Chlorine plays a role in the formation of stomach acid. It contributes to the proper functioning of the digestive system.
Sulphur (S)
Sulphur is found in the structure of some amino acids. It is effective in detoxification processes and supports skin health.
What are Micro Minerals (Trace Elements)?
Micro minerals are present in the body in very small amounts but have vital functions. Iron, zinc, iodine, selenium, copper, manganese, fluorine, chromium and molybdenum belong to this group. They play a critical role in the functioning of enzyme systems.
Iron (Fe)
Iron is responsible for oxygen transport. Its deficiency can cause anaemia and is associated with fatigue.
Zinc (Zn)
Zinc supports the immune system. It is involved in cell regeneration and wound healing.
Iodine (I)
Iodine is found in the structure of thyroid hormones. It contributes to the regulation of metabolic rate.
Selenium (Se)
Selenium is part of the antioxidant defence system. It helps to reduce cell damage.
Copper (Cu)
Copper supports iron metabolism. It is effective in nervous system health and connective tissue formation.
Manganese (Mn)
Manganese plays a role in bone development and enzyme activities. Supports metabolic processes.
Flor (F)
Fluorine contributes to the strengthening of tooth enamel. Balanced intake reduces the risk of caries.
Chromium (Cr)
Chromium is effective in maintaining blood sugar balance. Supports insulin functions.
Molybdenum (Mo)
Molybdenum is required for the functioning of some enzymes. It contributes to protein and carbohydrate metabolism.
What are the functions of minerals?
Minerals play an essential role in maintaining the structural integrity of the body and the regular functioning of vital systems. Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium contribute to the strengthening of the skeletal system by supporting the formation and durability of bone and tooth tissue.
Electrolyte minerals such as sodium, potassium and chlorine regulate the balance of intracellular and extracellular fluid, enabling healthy muscle contraction and nerve conduction. The expression “what is fluoride in water?“, which is frequently raised in this process, is defined as a mineral compound that supports dental health and is naturally found in some waters or added in a controlled manner.
Minerals also play an important role in the effective functioning of the immune system. Minerals such as zinc, iron and selenium support the development and function of immune cells and increase the body’s resistance to infections. In addition, many minerals are necessary for the synthesis of hormones and the activation of enzymes. Iodine is involved in the structure of thyroid hormones, while magnesium and zinc contribute to the regulation of hundreds of enzymatic reactions.
Minerals also play a major role in maintaining metabolic balance. While iron supports cellular energy production by providing oxygen transport, chromium and manganese help regulate carbohydrate and fat metabolism. With all these functions, minerals are among the indispensable nutrients for growth, development, energy production and maintenance of body balance.
What are the Minerals in Water?
The minerals found naturally in drinking water vary depending on the geological structure and the characteristics of the source. Calcium and magnesium determine the degree of hardness of the water and are important for bone and muscle health. Sodium contributes to the maintenance of fluid balance in the body and is particularly effective on electrolyte balance. Fluorine is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel.
The presence of minerals dissolved in water affects both the taste and bioavailability of water. For this reason, mineralised water properties differ according to the type and density of minerals in its content and directly determine its nutritional value. Water purifiers used to improve the quality of drinking water used to improve the quality of water as systems that aim to reduce unwanted substances in the water supports your mineral intake.
Is Drinking Mineral Water Enough?
Although mineral waters are a useful beverage option that supports daily mineral intake, it should not be expected to meet all mineral needs alone. The mineral content of waters is limited and some minerals are only present in very low amounts. Therefore, most of the minerals needed by the body should be obtained from foods such as vegetables, fruits, dairy products, cereals and protein sources. Mineral water should be considered as a complement to a balanced and varied diet. Considering it as the main source of minerals may lead to inadequate intake in the long term.
Is it Harmful to Drink Mineral Water?
Water with low mineral content or treated water is not harmful for healthy individuals in the short term, but long-term use as the only source of water may limit mineral intake. At this point, the question “What is TDS?” is explained as a measurement concept expressing the total amount of minerals dissolved in water and provides information about the mineral density of water.
The question “What is activated carbon filter?” used in treatment systems explains the filter technology that improves the taste and odour of water by retaining chlorine and organic compounds. The concept of “what is hydrogen water?”, which has attracted attention in recent years, refers to a type of water that stands out with its antioxidant effects enriched with molecular hydrogen.
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