Question

Explain the importance of the following minerals for the body?

Minerals
Sodium
Potassium
Calcium
Iron

Answer 1

Minerals. Minerals are those elements on the earth and in foods that our bodies need to develop and functionnormally. 

Calcium is essential for the formation of bone and teeth, for clotting of blood, contraction of heart and muscle etc

Iron deficiency causes anaemia and is widely prevalent among children, adolescent girls and expectant and nursing mothers

All minerals except Sodium Chloride (Nacl) are usually present in sufficient amounts in a well - balanced diet. Sodium chloride is the only mineral which is taken in more or less pure form in addition to the amount present in natural foods

The functions of potassium are : Regulation of pH of cell contents, Regulation of the osmotic pressure of cell contents and Potassium ion increases the relaxation of heart muscle which is antagonized by calcium ion.