minerals

Minerals naturally occur in the earth’s soil. Like vitamins, minerals are essential in enabling the body to perform its vital functions. We need them to regulate the makeup of our body fluids, to formulate our blood and bones, and maintain healthy nerve function.

Minerals belong to either macro (bulk) minerals or micro (trace) minerals. Bulk minerals include calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. These are needed in larger amounts than trace minerals. Trace minerals include zinc, iron, copper, manganese, chromium, selenium, and iodine.

Whole foods, such as grains, beans, fruits and vegetables, contain an abundance of essential minerals.