Minerals are essential to the healthy functioning of the body. They include iron, iodine, chloride, boron, and copper. Minerals are found in a variety of food sources including broccoli, chicken, beets, berries, whole grains, oranges, nuts, cabbage, organic eggs, wild fish, corn on the cob and sweet potatoes, just to name a few.

Iron - Iron is found in most meats, and is what gives blood its color. Not enough iron can result in anemia, which can lead to the need for blood transfusions. In order for iron to fully absorb, you also need an ample supply of vitamin C, which can be found in most fruits and natural fruit juices. Specific sources of iron include grilled steaks, tomato sauces and dried apricots.

Iodine - Iodine is one of the most important minerals to receive when you are pregnant. It's also very important throughout the course of your life. Iodine influences the thyroid and the skin. Children who do not receive enough iodine in their mother's diet when in the womb may be born with coarse features, thick lips, and a protruding tongue. The best sources of iodine are meats such as fish, which also contain omega-3 fatty acids, cod liver oil, whole grains and vegetables. The majority of iodine (90 percent) is obtained from foods while the remaining amount is obtained from water.

Chloride - A few of the many benefits of chloride include balancing alkaline and acid levels in the body and relieving vomiting and diarrhea. Too much acid in the body can lower your pH balance, and make your body the perfect breeding ground for cancer. It can also cause acid reflux disorder, ulcers, and a number of other digestive problems. Chloride is found in celery, lettuce, tomatoes, olives, rye, seaweed, sea salt and table salt.

Boron - Boron works in correlation with the minerals magnesium and calcium to help the body develop and maintain strong joints. Boron can be found in vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Some of specific sources of boron include bananas, broccoli, avocados, beans, brazil nuts, carrots, dates, and grapes.

Copper - Copper is responsible for contributing to healthy heart rhythm, energy, proper aging, connective tissues, wound healing, utilization of iron, proper growth, cholesterol, prevention of arthritis, healthy hair, and eye sight. Copper can be found in legumes, dark chocolate, organic meats, prunes, soybeans, green leafy vegetables, and fruits.

As you can see, obtaining your minerals is very important. Without minerals, everyone would die. Fortunately, the only thing you have to do is consume a healthy diet. Make sure that your diet contains a lot of variety to make sure that you are getting everything you need to function properly

Mental And Physical Fitness,Heart Disease,Stroke,Healthy Diet

Author's Bio: 

Popa Woolsey writes articles about mental and physical fitness.His articles are widely published including 40 countries world wide.