Functions of minerals

Minerals are among the vital components of our food that our body cannot produce itself. They fulfill a wide variety of functions in the metabolism. They serve as building materials for our bones (e.g. calcium), influence muscle and nerve function (magnesium), and regulate the body’s water balance (sodium). They are also components of hormones (iodine) as well as enzymes (selenium) or other biologically active compounds.

According to studies, in Germany & Austria, especially magnesium, calcium and zinc are consumed in high amounts, not only more than recommended, but sometimes even more than the maximum safe amount per day. This affects people who take in a lot of minerals through food or who take in several products containing the same minerals.

According to the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), supplements should not contain fluoride, sodium, chloride and phosphate for safety reasons. Boron & copper are not suitable for children and adolescents. Special caution is needed with zinc, iron is most likely to be useful for women up to menopause.

The intake of minerals can be increased by following some tricks in food preparation:

A balanced diet is sufficient to supply the body with sufficient amounts of essential minerals. If you know which foods contain particularly high levels of minerals, you can easily adjust your eating habits accordingly. The mineral supply table helps here; it provides an overview of the foods in which minerals occur naturally, the tasks they perform in the body, and how much adults should consume daily.

* Food supplements cannot replace a varied, healthy diet.

* Before any type of treatment, a consultation must be held with a doctor to obtain information about any vitamin deficiency, if necessary.