Minerals
Minerals have many important roles in the structure and function of the body. The body needs minerals to build and maintain healthy teeth and bones, carry nerve signals to and from the brain, carry oxygen to the cells, regulate blood sugar levels, and maintain a healthy immune system.
A total of 60 minerals have been discovered in the body, and 22 are essential to health. Minerals include calcium, sodium, and iron. Eating a variety of foods is the healthiest way for a body to receive all the minerals it needs.
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
May 25, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this
information.
@ 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.