Minerals (Macro) For Slimming Diet

Like vitamins, minerals are nutrients that the body needs in extremely small amounts. They, too, provide no calories. But unlike vitamins, minerals are inorganic elements, meaning they are not compounds, and they do not contain carbon.

There are at least sixteen different types of minerals that are important in the diet. These can fall into the categories of macro minerals and micro minerals. Each type is equally important; the body simply requires them in different amounts. Recommended daily requirements of minerals are extremely small, but they are very important to good health. Minerals, in general, help enzymes complete chemical reactions, aid in normal nerve functions and muscle contraction, promote growth, regulate acid-base balance, and maintain body fluid balance.

Macro minerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur, potassium, and chloride. These may be more familiar to most people in that they are required in somewhat larger amounts than the micronutrients. Let's focus in on each of these popular minerals.

Calcium is the mineral found in greatest amounts within the body and rightfully so. It is largely found in the bones to help maintain bone mass and strengthen bones throughout life. Additionally, calcium is used to build strong teeth. It is important for muscle contraction, the beating of the heart, nerve functioning, and blood clotting. The dairy group offers the greatest amount of calcium to the diet, although dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, and sardines supply calcium as well. Many foods today are also fortified with calcium, like orange juice.

Phosphorus and calcium work together in the body to help form strong bones and teeth. Phosphorus also helps in regulating energy metabolism. It can be found in almost all foods that are rich in protein, like milk, poultry, cheese, meats, legumes, eggs, and nuts, and also in breads, potatoes, peas, raisins, and avocados.

Sulfur is found in every body cell. It helps maintain the acid-base balance in the body. In addition, sulfur helps the liver transform toxins in the body into less harmful substances. Since the body needs sulfur in extremely small amounts, no dietary requirements exists, although sulfur is found in protein-rich foods and those that contain the B-vitamins thiamin and biotin.