What are minerals?

Without minerals, vitamins are literally worthless. Our body is unable to process vitamins without the help of minerals. Minerals are inorganic compounds which are essential for the structural composition of hard and soft tissue, like our teeth, bones, muscles and even blood and nerve cells. Minerals, which are essential for the overall physical and mental welfare of the body, are basically catalysts which help in several important body reactions like muscle contractions, message transmission in the nervous system, production of hormones, to name a few.

Can our body produce minerals?

No. Like some vitamins, out body cannot make minerals. Minerals have to be provided through the diet or dietary supplements. Minerals can be classified into two types: The major elements or the macro minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, iodine, and potassium; and trace minerals or micro minerals like copper, cobalt, manganese, fluorine, and zinc. Minerals are required in minute quantities and usually a well balanced and healthy diet will meet the necessary requirement. However, some people may need to take a supplement to meet their bodies