Minerals
What are minerals?
Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic (non carbon containing) elements which play a part in many biochemical and physiological processes necessary for good health. They are as important as vitamins for our bodies to function properly.
As the body cannot make any minerals, we obtain them from the plant and animal foods we eat and from water, which may contain dissolved minerals. Minerals can be grouped into those required in our diets in amounts greater than 100 milligrams a day, known as essential minerals and those required in amounts less than 100 milligrams per day, which are known as trace minerals.
The essential minerals
About twenty known minerals are needed for body maintenance and regulatory functions. In Australia recommended daily intakes have been established for: