Do we need minerals?

Introduction

Minerals are chemical elements that originate from the earth and are found in the food we eat. Plants absorb minerals from the soil and when we eat the plants our bodies absorb the minerals.  Animals also eat the plants, so when we eat meat, chicken or fish, we indirectly also absorb minerals. Our bodies cannot make minerals, so whatever we need, has to come from food or from taking supplements.

In order to maintain normal function, the body requires small amounts of approximately 18 different minerals. Minerals works in harmony with vitamins; together they are referred to as micronutrients and both are essential for the body to function properly.