In part 1 of this 2 part series, I promised you that I would summarize the value and function of each mineral, so that is exactly what I am going to do. By reading over these descriptions, you can form ideas as to which ones you or your child might be deficient in and which ones you might have a sufficient amount of.

Calcium is necessary for:

• Bone and teeth formation
• Blood clotting
• Heart rhythm
• Nerve transmission
• Muscle growth and contraction

A Calcium deficiency can result in:

• Muscle cramps
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Crowded teeth

Chromium is necessary for:

• Proper blood sugar levels
• Healthy functioning of the circulatory system

A Chromium deficiency can result in:

• Sugar cravings
• Kidney challenges
• Diabetes

Copper is necessary for:

• Bone formation
• Hair and skin colour
• Healing
• Red blood cell production
• Mental and emotional health

A Copper deficiency can result in:

• Anemia
• Inflammation
• Arthritis
• Anxiety

Iron is necessary for:

• Growth and development of the young
• Production of hemoglobin
• A healthy immune system

An iron deficiency can result in:

• Anemia – ice cravings
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Cold intolerance
• Susceptibility to infections

Magnesium is necessary for:

• Energy production
• Maintaining proper pH balance
• Keeping normal body temperature
• Preventing birth defects
• Metabolizing other vitamins and minerals

A Magnesium deficiency can result in:

• Depression and/or anxiety
• Dizziness
• Muscle weakness and twitching
• PMS
• Kidney or gall stones
• Cravings for chocolate
• Excessive body odour

Manganese is necessary for:

• Protein and fat metabolism
• Healthy nervous system
• Healthy immunity
• Energy production
• Bone and cartilage growth
• Lubrication of the joints

A Manganese deficiency can result in:

• Cracks in the side of the mouth
• Painful, creaking or clicking joints
• Bursitis, tendonitis
• Prone to injuries
• Weak knees and muscles

Potassium is necessary for:

• Healthy nervous system
• Normal functioning of the heart (blood pressure, heart rhythm), muscles, kidneys and blood
• Water balance

A Potassium deficiency can result in:

• Always being thirsty
• Muscular weakness and fatigue
• Swelling of ankles

Selenium is necessary for:

• Protecting the immune system and cells
• Regulating the thyroid hormone in metabolizing fat
• Healthy pancreatic function

A Selenium deficiency can result in:

• Dry or thin hair
• Frequent infection
• Dandruff

Zinc is necessary for:

• Healthy prostate function
• Growth of reproductive organs
• Preventing acne
• Protein synthesis and collagen formation
• Fast wound healing
• Taste and smell acuity
• Carbohydrate and protein digestion

A Zinc deficiency can result in:

• White spots on nails
• Acne
• Thinning hair
• Stretch marks
• Poor dream recall

When there are deficiencies, nutritionists believe that taking a multi-mineral is ideal because all minerals work in tandem with one another. Please see a nutritionist if you require more information on your individual vitamin or mineral deficiencies and requirements.

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Until next time,

Meredith

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