Elemental Nutrients: What They Are, How To Get Them, And Why They're Important

By Author: nutritionandholisticliving
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Elemental nutrients are essential minerals that the body needs to function properly. These minerals are called “elemental” because they cannot be broken down into smaller components. In this article, we will discuss what elemental nutrients are, how to get them, and why they are important for overall health.

What are Elemental Nutrients?
Elemental nutrients are inorganic substances that are essential for the proper functioning of the human body. They include calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc. Each of these minerals plays a specific role in the body and is required in specific amounts for optimal health.

Calcium: Calcium is important for building strong bones and teeth, nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.

Iron: Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. It is also important for immune function and energy production.

Magnesium: Magnesium is important for bone health, nerve function, muscle contraction, and energy production.

Phosphorus: Phosphorus is essential for the formation of bones and ...
... teeth, as well as energy production and cell function.

Potassium: Potassium is important for regulating blood pressure, nerve function, and muscle contraction.

Sodium: Sodium is important for maintaining fluid balance in the body and nerve function.

Zinc: Zinc is important for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
How to Get Elemental Nutrients
The best way to get elemental nutrients is through a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods. Foods that are rich in elemental nutrients include:

Calcium: Dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods such as orange juice and tofu.

Iron: Red meat, poultry, seafood, beans, and fortified cereals.
Magnesium: Leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Phosphorus: Dairy products, meat, fish, and poultry.

Potassium: Fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and beans.
Sodium: Processed foods, table salt, and some natural sources such as celery.
Zinc: Oysters, beef, pork, poultry, beans, and nuts.
Why are Elemental Nutrients Important?

Elemental nutrients are essential for many functions in the body, including the formation of bones and teeth, nerve function, muscle contraction, energy production, immune function, and the maintenance of fluid balance. Deficiencies in these minerals can lead to a range of health problems, including bone loss, anemia, muscle weakness, and immune dysfunction.

In conclusion, elemental nutrients are essential minerals that the body needs to function properly. They can be obtained through a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods. To ensure that you are getting enough of these minerals, it is important to eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources. If you are concerned about your mineral intake, consult with a registered dietitian or your healthcare provider.