15 Important Minerals That Our Body Needs

Are you aware of the vital role that minerals play in sustaining your overall health and well-being? These micro-nutrients are the unsung heroes of our bodies, quietly working behind the scenes to ensure our physiological processes run smoothly.

From calcium and iron to zinc and magnesium, these minerals are the building blocks of life, affecting everything from our bones and muscles to our immune system and energy levels.

If you have ever felt unexplained fatigue or had frequent muscle cramps, then the answer might lie in these essential minerals.

Understanding the significance of these minerals is not just a matter of general knowledge; it is a key to optimizing your health and quality of life.

Imagine having the knowledge to make informed dietary choices that empower your body to function at its best.

So, are you ready to embark on a journey to discover the importance of these essential minerals?

Keep reading.

What are minerals?

Dietary minerals are essential inorganic substances naturally present in the foods and beverages we consume. These minerals are crucial for various physiological functions and for the overall health and well-being of the human body.

Minerals typically form only 5% of the typical human diet but are crucial for normal health and function ¹. The health authorities have given daily allowances of all the vital minerals and recommend that people should aim to meet 100% of them through a healthy eating pattern and supplemental form (if required).

Let’s have a look at all the minerals that we need, along with the reason why they are considered important.

Mineral	Function in the body
Calcium	Required for strong bones, teeth, muscle and nerve functions and blood clotting.
Phosphorus	Essential for bone health, energy metabolism and DNA synthesis.
Magnesium	Serves as a cofactor for around 300 enzyme reactions. Also, important for bone and muscle health.
Sodium	Important for a healthy fluid and electrolyte balance, blood pressure and muscle function.
Iron	Necessary for red blood cell formation and function.
Potassium	Serves as a cofactor for around 300 enzyme reactions. Also important for bone and muscle health.
Zinc	Involved in immune function, wound healing and DNA synthesis.
Selenium	Important for a healthy fluid and electrolyte balance, blood pressure, and heart and muscle function.
Copper	Essential for iron metabolism, tissue formation, and antioxidant action.
Manganese	Support antioxidant action, bone formation and blood clotting.
Molybdenum	Needed for amino acids metabolism and detoxification processes.
Iodine	Required for proper thyroid gland functioning and to regulate metabolism.
Chromium	Required for healthy insulin function and blood sugar levels.
Fluoride	Supports dental health and strengthens tooth enamel.
Chloride	Supports a healthy fluid balance, better digestion, and immune, nerve and muscle function.

Functions of Minerals

Let’s have a detailed understanding of the role of each mineral in the body.

Calcium

This most abundant mineral in the body is primarily stored in bones and teeth, making it crucial for their structure and strength. Maintaining adequate calcium levels is necessary to prevent conditions like osteoporosis.
We need calcium for proper muscle contraction ². Low calcium levels are associated with muscle weakness and frequent cramping.
Calcium plays a key role in transmitting nerve impulses and ensuring they are relayed correctly from one nerve cell to another.
It aids in blood clotting and stops bleeding during injuries and wounds.
Calcium is involved in various enzymatic reactions where it acts as a cofactor.
Calcium plays a role in regulating the heartbeat and maintaining normal cardiac function. It helps with the contraction of the heart muscle, which is essential for pumping blood throughout the body.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is involved in the breakdown and utilization of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is a critical component of enzymes that facilitate these metabolic processes.
Phosphorus, along with calcium, is a crucial component of bone and tooth structure. It supports a strong bone density and contributes to the strength and integrity of our bones.
It also acts as a buffer and helps regulate the pH balance of body fluids.
Phosphorus is an elemental part of nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA, responsible for carrying and transmitting genetic information.
Our body also uses phosphorus in nerve function and the transmission of nerve signals.
It is involved in the process of muscle contraction, and an imbalance in phosphorus levels can affect muscle strength and coordination ³.

Magnesium

Magnesium is paramount for muscle contraction and relaxation. It helps muscles function properly and prevents muscle cramps and spasms. Athletes and active individuals often choose magnesium supplements to support muscle performance.
It is essential for normal neurological function and may diminish the incidence of neurological disorders ⁴.
Magnesium is critical for maintaining a regular heartbeat. It helps the heart muscles contract correctly and supports the cardiovascular system. Adequate magnesium intake may minimize the risk of arrhythmias and lower blood pressure.
Magnesium functions with vitamin D and calcium to keep our bones strong and healthy.
It acts as a cofactor during energy production and supports energy metabolism.
Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar levels by influencing insulin action. Hence, maintaining adequate levels may reduce the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
This mineral also supports the function of the immune system by aiding in the production and activation of immune cells.
Studies suggest that magnesium may also help relieve stress and anxiety by affecting the release of stress hormones and neurotransmitters.

Sodium

In addition to potassium and chloride, sodium is one of the body’s primary electrolytes. It helps regulate blood volume and the concentration of electrolytes in the body, which is critical for proper cell function.
Proper sodium balance is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. It helps control blood volume, and changes in sodium levels can lead to shifts in blood pressure.
We need sodium for the secretion of stomach acid, which is necessary for digestion and nutrient absorption.
Sodium plays a vital role in transmitting nerve impulses throughout the body. It is essential for muscle contraction, reflexes, and all other aspects of nervous system function.

Iron

Iron’s most common and primary role is to prevent iron deficiency anaemia ⁵.
Iron is an important segment of haemoglobin, which attaches to oxygen and takes it through the bloodstream to various tissues and organs.
It also supports the production and function of immune cells and helps the body defend against infections.
Iron is necessary for the synthesis of DNA, the genetic material in cells. This is crucial for cell growth, division, and repair.
Iron deficiency can lead to brittle nails, hair loss, and pale skin, as it is involved in collagen production.
Adequate iron levels in the body can help reduce fatigue and increase overall energy levels.

Potassium

Potassium is crucial for proper muscle contraction and function. Adequate potassium intake supports proper muscle function, which is essential for overall mobility and cardiac health ⁶.
It aids in conducting electrical signals within the nervous system, vital for sensory and cognitive function.
Adequate potassium intake is linked with a reduced risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases as it counteracts the effects of sodium in the body by helping to relax blood vessel walls and lower blood pressure.
Potassium, along with sodium, helps regulate the body’s fluid balance.
Potassium is essential for kidney and bone health.
Adequate potassium intake can help prevent muscle cramps and spasms, particularly during physical activity or hot weather when the body loses potassium through sweat.

Zinc

We need zinc for our immune system to function properly. It helps activate and support the function of immune cells, such as T cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages, which fight off infections and protect the body from diseases ⁷.
It assists in collagen production, which is essential for repairing damaged tissues, wound healing and forming new blood vessels.
Zinc plays a key role in DNA synthesis and cell division.
Zinc possesses antioxidant properties and helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
We need zinc to produce and regulate various hormones, including insulin, thyroid and sex hormones.
Adequate zinc levels are indispensable for maintaining healthy skin, sensory functions, and eye health.
Zinc is also involved in the production of healthy sperm in males and supports various reproductive processes in females.

Selenium

Selenium has potent antioxidant properties, which protect us from free radicals and oxidative damage.
It supports the production and activation of immune cells and helps the body respond effectively to infections and diseases.
Selenium is essential for producing thyroid hormones, which are crucial for regulating metabolism and energy production ⁸.
Selenium may help improve heart health by decreasing inflammation, supporting blood vessel function, and reducing oxidative stress.
It is also necessary for healthy sperm production. Selenium plays a role in sperm motility and quality, which can impact male fertility.
Adequate creatine intake promotes healthy hair and nails. It can help reduce brittleness and improve their overall condition.

Copper

We need copper for the formation of red blood cells. It helps in the absorption and utilization of iron, which is crucial for synthesizing haemoglobin.
Copper provides immune system support by activating the immune cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages.
It plays a major role in developing and maintaining the central nervous system by stimulating the synthesis of neurotransmitters.
Copper plays a role in bone strengthening. It supports bone mineralization by facilitating the incorporation of minerals like calcium and phosphorus into the bone structure ⁹.
Our body utilizes copper to form and maintain connective tissues, such as collagen and elastin.
It serves as a co-factor for various enzymes in the body.
Copper helps regulate the balance between iron absorption and storage in the body.

Manganese

Manganese is a cofactor for various enzymes that act as antioxidants and facilitate metabolic processes, contributing to the body’s energy production and overall functioning.
Manganese plays a role in forming and maintaining healthy bones and connective tissues.
We need this mineral for the synthesis of blood clotting factors.
Manganese is vital for healthy reproductive tissues and supporting fertility in both males and females.
It helps regulate neurotransmitters and may play a role in cognitive function.
Manganese is important for the wound-healing process. It aids tissue repair and can promote faster healing of injuries and surgical wounds.
Adequate manganese intake may contribute to preventing osteoporosis by supporting bone health and reducing the risk of bone-related conditions.

Molybdenum

This trace mineral serves as a cofactor for several enzymes, particularly involved in converting nutrients into energy.
Molybdenum supports detoxification and helps the body eliminate harmful compounds by transforming them into more readily excreted forms.
It helps in the activation of certain enzymes.
While molybdenum is required in only trace amounts, it is important for normal human growth and development. Molybdenum deficiency can lead to health issues and developmental problems.

Iodine

Iodine is essential to thyroid hormones, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are critical for regulating the body’s metabolism, energy production, and the functioning of nearly all tissues and organs ¹⁰.
It is essential for proper bone and brain development during foetal development and early childhood.
Adequate iodine intake is important for maintaining cognitive function.
Iodine contributes to the body’s defence against infections and diseases by supporting the production of immune cells and promoting immune responses.
Iodine has natural antimicrobial properties and is used in medical settings as an antiseptic for wound cleaning and the prevention of infections.

Chromium

Chromium is well-known for its role in blood sugar control. It enhances the action of insulin and is particularly critical for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
Chromium plays a role in carbohydrates, fats, and protein metabolism. It helps the body convert these macronutrients into energy and contributes to overall metabolic function.
Chromium may help reduce total cholesterol levels, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol.
Athletes and bodybuilders popularly use chromium to enhance muscle development, reduce body fat, and improve exercise performance.

Fluoride

Fluoride’s most well-known benefit is its role in preventing tooth decay and promoting dental health.
Fluoride helps to remineralize tooth enamel and can reverse early-stage tooth decay before it progresses to cavities.
It can help lessen the risk of gum inflammation by hindering the growth of harmful oral bacteria.
Fluoride plays a role in maintaining healthy bones. It makes them stronger and more resistant to fractures.

Chloride

Chloride helps maintain the balance of fluids within and outside cells.
It helps maintain the pH of bodily fluids, keeping them within an optimal range.
Chloride is a component of hydrochloric acid (HCl) produced by the stomach, which is essential for the digestion and breakdown of food.
It supports the production and function of immune cells, which help the body defend against infections and diseases.
Chloride ions play a role in muscle contraction. They are involved in neuromuscular transmission, ensuring nerve signals are transmitted to muscle cells, leading to muscle contractions.
Chloride ions are important for the transmission of nerve signals.

Minerals: Daily Requirement and Dietary Sources

Mineral	Requirement/Day	Food Sources
Calcium	1000 mg	Milk, soy milk, oats, yoghurt, cheese, chicken, organ meat, seafood, peanuts, almonds, lentils, whole grains, and eggs.
Phosphorus	1000 mg	Milk, soy milk, oats, yogurt, cheese, chicken, organ meat, seafood, peanuts, almonds, lentils, whole grains, and eggs.
Magnesium	325-385 mg	Nuts, seeds, leafy vegetables, whole grains, quinoa, oats, fatty fish, chickpeas, lentils, and dairy products.
Sodium	2000 mg	Table salt, milk, curd, paneer, cheese, and canned foods.
Iron	19-29 mg	Meat, chicken, fish, soybean, tofu, lotus stem, oats, mustard leaves, beet greens, nuts, and seeds.
Potassium	3500 mg	Bananas, coconut water, sweet potatoes, green leafy vegetables, dried fruits, nuts, and seeds.
Zinc	13.2-17 mg	Meat, chicken, dairy foods, nuts, seeds, whole grains, quinoa, seafood, eggs, and chickpeas.
Selenium	40 mcg	Brazil nuts, seafood, chicken, legumes, meat, eggs, dairy foods, mushrooms, nuts, and seeds.
Copper	2 mg	Organ meat, nuts, seeds, barley, oats, potatoes with skin, lentils, beans, and leafy greens.
Manganese	4 mg	Nuts, seeds, whole grains, pineapple, berries, green leafy vegetables, legumes, pine nuts, and avocado.
Molybdenum	45 mcg	Legumes, buckwheat, millets, oats, nuts, sunflower seeds, beans and dairy products.
Iodine	150 mcg	Iodized salt, seafood, seaweed, dairy foods, eggs, and grains.
Chromium	50 mcg	Whole grains, broccoli, green beans, nuts, mushrooms, chicken, eggs, and green peppers.
Fluoride	3-4 mg	Fish, green tea, black tea, and Fluoridated drinking water.
Chloride	1800-2300 mg	Table salt, dairy foods, eggs, chicken, seafood, legumes, spinach, celery, and tomatoes.

Source: ICMR RDA, 2020¹¹

Conclusion

In conclusion, minerals play a role in diverse aspects of health, from bone strength and immune function to enzyme activity and electrolyte balance. The depth of their impact is truly remarkable.

It is important to prioritize minerals in your diet and consume rich dietary sources regularly.

However, if you feel that dietary sources are not enough and you need supplemental forms as well to fulfil your daily needs, it is not a bad idea either!

Therefore, embracing a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of mineral-rich foods and being mindful of potential deficiencies or excesses is advisable. It also means consulting with a healthcare provider if you have specific dietary limitations or health concerns.

References

Tako, E. (2019). Dietary trace minerals. Nutrients, 11(11), 2823. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11112823[↩]
Szent‐Györgyi, A. (1975). Calcium regulation of muscle contraction. Biophysical Journal, 15(7), 707–723. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0006-3495(75)85849-8[↩]
Allen, D. G., & Westerblad, H. (2001). Role of phosphate and calcium stores in muscle fatigue. The Journal of Physiology, 536(3), 657–665. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7793.2001.t01-1-00657.x[↩]
Maier, J. a. M., Locatelli, L., Fedele, G., Cazzaniga, A., & Mazur, A. (2022). Magnesium and the Brain: a focus on neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(1), 223. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24010223[↩]
Miller, J. L. (2013). Iron deficiency Anemia: a common and curable disease. Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine, 3(7), a011866. https://doi.org/10.1101/cshperspect.a011866[↩]
Aburto, N., Hanson, S. N., Gutierrez, H., Hooper, L., Elliott, P., & Cappuccio, F. P. (2013). Effect of increased potassium intake on cardiovascular risk factors and disease: systematic review and meta-analyses. BMJ, 346(apr03 3), f1378. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.f1378[↩]
Prasad, A. S. (2008). Zinc in human health: Effect of zinc on immune cells. Molecular Medicine, 14(5–6), 353–357. https://doi.org/10.2119/2008-00033.prasad[↩]
Ventura, M., Melo, M., & Carrilho, F. (2017). Selenium and thyroid disease: From pathophysiology to treatment. International Journal of Endocrinology, 2017, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/1297658[↩]
Rondanelli, M., Faliva, M. A., Infantino, V., Gasparri, C., Iannello, G., Perna, S., Riva, A., Petrangolini, G., Tartara, A., & Peroni, G. (2021). Copper as dietary Supplement for bone metabolism: A review. Nutrients, 13(7), 2246. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13072246[↩]
Chung, H. R. (2014). Iodine and thyroid function. Annals of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism, 19(1), 8. https://doi.org/10.6065/apem.2014.19.1.8[↩]
https://www.fssai.gov.in/upload/advisories/2021/07/60f1798019f94Direction_RDA_16_07_2021.pdf[↩]