 Unlike proteins, carbohydrates and fats, minerals are inorganic materials (carbon-free) and do not provide energy directly.
But they cause the reactions that are just necessary to release it, and perform basic functions for:
- the development of tissues and organs;
- the creation of antibodies;
- the vigour of skeletal structure, heart, brain and nervous system;
- the acid / basic balance of bodily fluids.
Not beeing synthesized by the organism, minerals must be introduced through water, food, and salt (preferably the iodized one).
The daily requirement of minerals is minimal but essential, since they are continually expeled through sweat, urine and feces.
The most important minerals are: calcium, fluorine, phosphorus, potassium, copper, sodium, zinc, iron and sulphur.
Calcium, fluorine and phosphorus participate in the formation of bones and teeth.
Calcium is found in dairy products, nuts, vegetables with green leaves; fluorine in fish, tea; phosphorus in calf liver, sardines and scombers, brewer's yeast, yolk of egg.
Potassium prevents cramps and muscle weakness, and is contained in cereals, nuts, fruits and vegetables in general, wheat germ.
Iron is useful against weakness and anaemia and, absorbed only if combined with calcium and vitamin C, is contained in cereals, lentils, lean beef, yolk, dried fruit, brewer's yeast, spinach.
Copper is perfect against fatigue and against skin inflammations, and is contained in cereals, dried fruit, green salads.
Sodium checks muscular power, reduces depressive crisis, improves memory, and is contained in nuts, vegetables with green leaves.
Zinc regularizes menstrual cycle and favours healing, and is contained in integral bread, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, wheat germ.
Sulfur is important in detoxification and defense of the organism, and is contained in beef, veal, turkey, pork, beef, fresh fish, parmesan cheese, vegetables, Brussels sprouts...
Are you hungry? Italy Family Hotels are waiting for you with their tasty and healthy menus ! arininchi
26/09/2008
alimentazione 
crescere un bambino 
salute 
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