Mineral Salts: Why Are They Important And Where To Find Them?
The human body is a complex system that works in complete harmony. However, when we neglect it, it reacts in some specific ways. These symptoms let us know that our body is missing something or has too much of something. Mineral salts are a type of substance that you may be missing. Consequently, your body cannot function fully efficiently.
In today’s article, we’ll talk about what mineral salts are and why they are so important. We will also advise you on how to make sure you have enough of them in your daily diet.
What are mineral salts?
Mineral salts are inorganic molecules that occur in living organisms as a result of precipitation, ionization reactions or as molecules associated with other molecules.
- Those that are substances formed as a result of the loss reaction form hard, sparingly soluble compounds that persist in our bodies for a long time. They also fulfill regulatory functions.
- In the case of ionized minerals, when dissolved in water, they have a positive or negative charge. Among other things, this helps to neutralize large differences in pH levels.
- Mineral salts bound to other molecules, on the other hand, fulfill roles that they would not be able to perform on their own.
Why is it important to pay attention to the concentration of mineral salts?
The function of mineral salts is based on the growth and health of the human body in general. The main purpose of their presence is to ensure that certain key biological and chemical processes are possible and that the necessary structures are formed in the body.
Here is a basic list of the most important mineral salts:
- Sodium
- Calcium
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
Mineral salts, like vitamins, do not contain calories. However, that doesn’t mean you don’t need to pay attention to how much salt you consume in your food. On the contrary, you need to pay close attention to how much mineral salt you provide to your body.
The most important functions of mineral salts
Sodium
Sodium regulates the amount of fluid in our bodies – both inside and outside our cells. It also helps to transfer and generate nerve impulses and the correct responses to muscle stimulation.
Sodium deficiency can cause fatigue.
Calcium
This type of mineral salt has various functions in the human body. First of all, it forms the elements of bones and teeth and maintains their structure in good health. Moreover, the presence of calcium is essential for proper blood clotting.
- If you don’t get the right amounts of calcium, your hair and nails may be weak and fragile.
- They may also have memory problems and an increased risk of developing osteoporosis.
Iron
The iron makes the formation of hemoglobin possible. This important protein contains red blood cells. Thanks to it, oxygen is transported to all tissues and cells of the body.
- Iron deficiency is often associated with anemia.
Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in transmitting nerve signals and in the process of muscle relaxation. Its presence is also important for maintaining an appropriate acid-base balance in the body.
Here is a list of the most common signs of a magnesium deficiency in the diet:
- Irregular heartbeat
- General fatigue
- Muscle cramps
- Anxiety
Potassium
Potassium is an essential mineral salt that is very important to the human body because of the functions it performs. For example, this type of mineral salt regulates the amount of water present inside and outside the cells, along with sodium. The presence of these two components is essential for proper development.
Here are the most important consequences of a potassium deficiency:
- Dry skin
- Dry mouth
- General weakness
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is one of the most important ingredients involved in the processes of bone and tooth formation. So phosphorus compounds play a very important role in humans. Their next job is to regulate how the body uses up carbohydrates and fats.
Phosphorus deficiency can manifest itself with disadvantages such as:
- Insomnia
- Nervousness
- Exhaustion
Products rich in mineral salts
- You will find calcium in particular in dairy products like yogurt, cheese and milk.
- Potassium is present in the fruit. As potassium is involved in regulating muscle activity, bananas are especially helpful for people who experience frequent muscle contractions. You will also find this important ingredient in legumes, meat, fish … and even in chocolate.
- Iron can be found in offal, clams, cocoa, legumes, egg yolks and all grains.
- Magnesium is provided by the above-mentioned products: legumes and chocolate. Also reach for sprouts, nuts and whole wheat bread.
- We usually ingest phosphorus with lipids. So eat meat and fish.
Mineral salts are essential for your body to function fully and efficiently. Like vitamins, salts should be taken daily, regularly and in adequate amounts.
Take a look at your daily diet and check if there are any products recommended by us. If not – be sure to include them permanently in your diet to be sure that you are taking a sufficient amount of mineral salts.
