Minerals (Micro) For Slimming Diet

Micro minerals

The micro minerals are extremely important in body functions even though they are needed only in very small amounts. Following is a rundown of these essential nutrients.

Iron

Iron is one of the most important minerals in the body, which is mostly found within the blood. Iron is part of the hemoglobin, a protein that helps red blood cells transport oxygen from the lungs to the cells. Hemoglobin also carries carbon dioxide from the body tissues back to the lungs for excretion. Because iron is part of the blood cells, it can be depleted if blood stores are depleted. As a result, too little iron in the body can result in a condition referred to as anemia, a type of iron deficiency. This makes the blood less able to carry oxygen, causing tiredness, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Iron-rich foods should be a part of everyone's diet. These include red meat, clams, oysters, duck, dark green leafy vegetables, and enriched whole grains and cereals. Iron is also more highly absorbed by the body when consumed with food rich in vitamin C, for example when an iron-enriched cereal is eaten along with a glass of orange juice.

Zinc

Zinc contributes to numerous body functions, including growth and sexual development. It also helps increase enzyme functions. Additionally it helps with acid-base balance and helps the body resist infections. Zinc can be found in foods like red meats, seafood, liver, eggs, milk, whole grains, wheat germ, legumes, and nuts.

Iodine

Iodine plays a role in metabolic functions within the body, particularly in producing a hormone called thyroxine, which controls metabolism. Iodine is mostly found in saltwater fish and iodized salt (table salt with added iodine).

Fluoride

Fluoride is commonly thought of in connection to water as it occurs naturally in some water and is added to other water sources. Fluoride is important for healthy bones and teeth. Outside of the water supply, it can be found in tea and in fish (like canned salmon) that have edible bones.

Selenium

Selenium works as an antioxidant in conjunction with vitamin E. It is also responsible for maintaining cell growth. Selenium can mostly be found in meats, liver, eggs, fish, and shellfish.

Copper, Chromium, Manganese, Molybdenum

Each of these minerals also benefits body processes. Copper helps make hemoglobin and contributes to keeping bones, blood vessels, and nerves healthy. It is found in beans, seeds, seafood, nuts, seeds, and organ meats. Chromium aids in glucose metabolism and can be found in egg yolks, meats, cheese, mushrooms, nuts, and yeast. Manganese plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism and enzyme functions. It is available in whole grains, beans, and dark green leafy vegetables. And molybdenum plays a role in enzyme activity and is found in dairy foods, nuts, beans, and whole-grain products.

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