Minerals
Definition
An inorganic element, such as calcium, iron, potassium, sodium, or zinc, that is essential to the nutrition of humans, animals, and plants.
What is a Mineral?
Minerals are inorganic, meaning they do not contain carbon, and are not of animal or vegetable origin. They are required by the body in small amounts and have various functions. Minerals are not absorbed very well in their natural state so often times manufacturers will bind them to proteins in order for them to be absorbed better. This process is called chelation and it is when an inorganic mineral is bound to and organic (meaning containing carbon) substance. Minerals found in whole foods are most times naturally chelated and are easily absorbed. Calcium is an example of a mineral. A caution concerning calcium is that in one study of 70 different brands of calcium supplements on the market showed that a majority of them contained lead levels above the recommended levels. It is wise to avoid calcium supplements that contain natural oyster shells, dolomite and bone meal products. Not all of these will contain high levels of lead, however there are better choices. Studies have shown that if your diet consists of mainly fruit, vegetables, grains and nuts and you avoid high acid foods including alcohol, meat, sugar, dairy, coffee, sodas, and artificial sweeteners, you will not need a calcium supplement. The reason behind this is the seven foods listed above are acid and your body uses calcium and other minerals to neutralize the acids. We do not need more calcium if we are eating a good, whole food diet. We just need less dangerous acid.
