Minerals can be acquired through supplements as directed by a physician.
Minerals are natural elements, such as iron, copper and sodium, that are derived from the earth. The human body needs a variety of minerals, many vitamins and nutrients, to function properly. However, these minerals are not produced naturally by the body, so they must be acquired through food sources.
Calcium
Calcium is the most common mineral in the body, with the majority found in bones and teeth and a small amount originating in the blood. Calcium is important for protecting the structural integrity of bones, as well as muscle contraction and the secretion of certain hormones. Calcium is readily available in most dairy products, as well as vegetables in the kale family, such as cabbage, bok choy and broccoli.
Magnesium
According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, magnesium is involved in more than 300 reactions in the human body, including the production of energy, as well as maintaining normal heart rhythm and the structure of bones. Because magnesium is part of the green plant pigment chlorophyll it can be found in many foods of that color, particularly leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus plays a part in many biological functions, particularly as a structural component of bone, along with calcium. It is also an important part of cell membranes and is involved in energy production and storage. Good sources of phosphorus include dairy products, fish and meat.
Potassium
Potassium is the main mineral component of the fluid inside cells. It is involved in energy production, as well as nerve contraction and carbohydrate metabolism. Potassium can be found in fruits and vegetables, such as bananas and potato skin.
Sodium and Chlorine
Sodium is an important mineral that, along with chlorine, is responsible for maintaining the balance of fluids and involved with muscle contraction and cardiac function. These minerals are typically consumed as sodium chloride, or table salt, which is present in most processed foods.
Trace Minerals
Other essential minerals are considered trace (or micro) minerals, meaning the body needs them in small quantities. These trace minerals include copper, cobalt, fluorine, iodine, manganese, selenium and zinc. They can be acquired by eating fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, fish and dairy products.
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