MINERALS

Our growth, our metabolism and our nervous system are dependant on the functioning of our thyroid gland. In order to produce the (thyroid) hormones that are required for the thyroid gland, Iodine is an essential mineral.

THE HEALTH EFFECT

Iodine is one of the trace elements that our body needs. It is found in Plankton, seaweed, sea fish and shellfish. Only a few foods contain Iodine. Hence, it is added to bread and salt (iodized salt).

A DEFICIENCY IN IODINE?

When people do not get sufficient iodine, the performance of the thyroid gland slows down and swells. Children may grow slower when having insufficient Iodine. Also, a lower learning ability and (in the case of very serious deficits) cretinism (dwarfism) may be the result of a too limited intake of this trace element.

Other symptoms of a deficiency in iodine are hair loss, flaky and dry skin, feeling cold and even feeling weak and fatigued. The most common symptom is a goitre in the neck area, caused by an overworked thyroid gland.

For women, an iodine deficiency may also cause menstrual issues like a heavier and more irregular period and pregnant woman are at risk of stillbirth and a less developed fetus / baby.

Magnesium has many different tasks in our body. It is literally vital: it make muscle contraction possible, so it is, for example, essential for the heart muscle to work!

THE HEALTH EFFECT

Magnesium is needed to make our bones and body proteins. In addition, it works on the synaptic transmission in nerves and muscles and is important for the proper functioning of our muscles (including the heart muscle as mentioned). Magnesium enhances the functioning of enzymes in the cells and the enzyme reactions.

A DEFICIENCY IN MAGNESIUM?

People with magnesium deficiency may have various complaints. First, a general tiredness or lethargy is typical. Exceptionally, also muscle cramps or even cardiac arrhythmias can occur.

Selenium is a trace element that acts as an antioxidant for the body and has an important protective function.

THE HEALTH EFFECT

Selenium protects the body in various ways. It protects our cells and red blood cells from damage. It also reduces the harmful effect of heavy metals we get from our daily diet. Finally, it also contributes to an effective thyroid operation.

A DEFICIENCY IN SELENIUM?

Probably certain people may get less than the daily recommended amount of selenium. This can count for women who are pregnant and young children. A selenium deficiency can be shown in blood tests. Symptoms of deficiency include muscle pain, muscle weakness and disturbance of cardiac function.

The antioxidant zinc is found in many enzymes that are important for the metabolism. In our daily diet, this trace element is found in small quantities in meat, grains and seafood.

THE HEALTH EFFECT

Zinc contributes to the formation of proteins (proteins) and the growth and regeneration of our body tissues. Moreover, it supports the metabolism and improves the functioning of our immune system.

A DEFICIENCY IN ZINC?

People who intake too little zinc in their diet, can have problems with their mucous membranes, skin and skeleton. Growth retardation and a change in taste and smell may also occur, as well as night blindness and reduced resistance.

If someone appears to be fatigued, the first suspect is an iron deficiency. With iron we're not just talking about your bike or a seat bracket. It also refers to an important nutrient that helps deliver top performance every day. A deficiency in this mineral may indeed lead to fatigue.

THE HEALTH EFFECT

Our body needs iron to make haemoglobin. Haemoglobin has a key role in oxygen transport in our blood and in our metabolism. Haemoglobin is a protein that transports oxygen and CO2 through the whole body by means or red blood cells. The iron in the haemoglobin causes the red blood cells to gain their colour. It provides our organs with the right amount of oxygen to function. A deficiency in iron can cause serious problems for your health.

A DEFICIENCY IN IRON?

A shortage of iron can cause a person to feel fatigued. An iron deficiency can also result in shortness of breath, hair loss, feeling cold, changes in the tongue, restless leg syndrome, headaches and paleness. In more severe cases, an iron deficiency leads to heart palpitations and murmurs and can even affect the cognitive functions of your brain like processing information and memory.

Anemia is often the result of iron deficiency and goes paired with the above symptoms. If you suspect you have an iron deficiency, please visit a doctor.

Calcium is one of the well known minerals. Most people know this mineral from dairy products.

THE HEALTH EFFECT

Calcium is necessary for strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in the functioning of our nerves and muscles and in blood clotting.

A DEFICIENCY IN CALCIUM?

When the intake of calcium during childhood and later life is sufficient, there is less risk of developing osteoporosis at later age.

Sulfur is also called sulphate. This trace element is present in both plant and animal products, especially if they are high in protein.

THE HEALTH EFFECT

Sulfur is essential for the conversion of hormones, amino acids and enzymes. It is a component of collagen, the protein that is essential for our skin. Sulfur will promote the liver to produce bile. Also Sulfur has an anti-inflammatory effect.

A DEFICIENCY IN SULFUR?

When there is a shortage of sulfur, it can lead to various symptoms. Gout and arthritis may point to a sulfur deficiency, but also a bad functioning liver and problems with skin condition.

The mineral phosphorus is also referred to as phosphate. Our body gets it from milk (products), whole grain products, fish and meat.

THE HEALTH EFFECT

Phosphorus cooperates with the mineral calcium, and thus contributes to the condition of our teeth and bones. It also has a role in the human energy metabolism.

A DEFICIENCY IN PHOSPHORUS?

Our regular diet has enough phosphorus. However if you use a lot of medication, a phosphorus deficiency may occur. Medication that inhibits gastric acid production, for example, may have this effect.

The mineral potassium is important for several processes in our body. It works closely together with the minerals sodium and chlorine.

THE HEALTH EFFECT

Our blood pressure and fluid balance needs potassium to remain stable. As potassium makes sure our blood pressure does not rise too high. The functioning of our muscles are dependant on this mineral. Finally, potassium also contributes to the transfer of nerve impulses.

A DEFICIENCY IN POTASSIUM?

Usually, we have the required amount of potassium in our diet. A deficiency can occur on the case of severe diarrhea or vomiting. People who use diuretics, may also have a deficit.

Symptoms of potassium deficiency include lethargy, poor appetite, a feeling of nausea and muscle weakness. In exceptional cases can occur arrhythmia.

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