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What is a Mineral?
Minerals are inorganic elements which are utilized as structural components of tissue and cellular compounds, as catalysts for enzyme activity, and to maintain normal osmotic and electrochemical gradients that support neuromuscular activity and cell membrane transport activity. Mineral elements may be required in small amounts (milligrams) or in trace amounts (micrograms).
Minerals: Key characteristics
1. Inorganic elements not produced endogenously
2. Needs satisfied by intakes of small or trace amounts
3. Distributed in the food supply in small amounts in limited numbers of foods
4. Obtained from industrial contaminants of air and water as well as from foods
5. Inadequate intake, increased demand, impaired absorption, or increased urinary losses are common causes of deficiencies.
Types of minerals
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