Micronutrients: Minerals

Overview
Minerals are inorganic substances (elements) required in small amounts by the body. They function in a number of processes including formation of bones and teeth, fluid balance, nerve conduction, muscle contraction, signaling, and catalysis. [Note: Several minerals are essential enzyme cofactors.] Like the organic vitamins , minerals are micronutrients required in mg or μg amounts. Those required by adults in the largest amounts (>100 mg/day) are referred to as the macrominerals. Minerals required in amounts between 1 and 100 mg/day are the microminerals (trace minerals). Ultratrace minerals are required in amounts <1 mg/day (Fig. 1). [Note: The classification of specific minerals into these categories can vary among sources.] Mineral concentrations in the body are influenced by their rates of absorption and excretion.

Figure .1 Classification of minerals and recommended amounts to be consumed/day by adults. [Note: *An adequate intake (AI) is set if insufficient scientific evidence is available to calculate a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA).]