Trace minerals are also known as micro minerals. Even though trace minerals are only required in small amounts, they are critical to our health and growth. Here are some of the amazing health benefits of trace minerals.
There are serval reasons why you may not be getting enough trace minerals including poor diet, pregnancy and depleted soils.
Below are some of the most important trace minerals your body needs to stay healthy.
Iron
Iron is required by the body for growth and development. It’s used by the body to produce haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all areas of the body. It is also required by your body to produce certain hormones.
Foods rich in iron include:
- Red meat
- Spinach
- Pork
- Raisins
Zinc
Zinc aids in the working of your immune system and metabolism. It helps your immune system fight off bacteria and viruses. Your body doesn’t naturally make zinc so it’s important you are getting enough through diet and supplements.
Foods rich in zinc include:
- Almonds
- Beef
- Turkey
- Yoghurt
- Milk
Manganese
Manganese is required for many small reactions that occur inside your cells, including assisting enzymes in carrying out tasks such as digestion, development, and energy generation. Benefits include supporting bone development and helping blood pressure.
Foods rich in manganese:
- Whole grains
- Nuts
- Brown rice
- Chickpeas
- Spinach
Iodine
Iodine is needed for growth and tissue repair. It also helps regulate your metabolism. Iodine’s most important role in the body is ensuring proper thyroid function. It does this by regulating the production of the thyroid hormones thyroxine.
Foods rich in iodine:
- Seaweed
- Fish
- Eggs
- Beef Liver
- Milk
- Cheese
Selenium
Selenium is needed for many processes in the body including fighting infection, DNA synthesis and reproduction. Selenium is a very important mineral since it helps a variety of systems work properly. Including your immune and cardiovascular.
Foods rich in Selenium include:
- Eggs
- Shellfish
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Milk
