Fundamentals of Human Nutrition/Minerals

Minerals

This chapter covers water and dietary minerals, including primary food sources, bioavailability, and dietary requirements for adults and special need populations. Specifically minerals are reviewed as electrolytes, bone minerals, trace minerals, and as key components of hormones and enzymes. In this chapter you will learn about individual mineral deficiencies, and the role of minerals in preventing chronic disease including osteoporosis. Special aspects of some minerals are introduced including the unique absorption mechanism of iron and zinc, role of fluoridated water, and genetic factors relating to iron and copper.