Minerals and Bone Health

           

     Minerals and Bone Health

Macro, micro, trace & essential minerals…what are they?

Which minerals are found in bones?

 Which vitamin is made in the skin on direct contact with sunlight?

Macro, micro, trace and essential are terms we often hear when it comes to minerals. But what do they mean and which minerals are really important for bone health? 

Macro minerals are needed in relatively large amounts. Micro minerals are required in small amounts and are the same as trace minerals. Essential minerals are required to be eaten as part of the diet as they are not made in the body.

The minerals found in bones include: calcium, potassium, manganese, magnesium, silica, iron, zinc, selenium, boron, phosphorus, sulphur, chromium, and others.  Calcium and magnesium are 2 of the macro bone minerals. 

Calcium has many important functions in the body including:

·       Calcium contributes to normal muscle function.
·       Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones.
·       Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal teeth.
·       Calcium contributes to normal neurotransmission.
·       Calcium contributes to normal energy-yielding
        metabolism.
 
Foods rich in Calcium
 
Calcium intake is vital as we do not produce it naturally, so our sources of calcium are dietary. Food sources of calcium include: Cow’s milk, yoghurt, cheese, broccoli, spinach, kale, oranges, Tofu, peanuts, baked beans, salmon, sardines, sesame seeds, black strap molasses, and almonds.

According to NetDoctor.co.uk, the RDA for calcium for an adult is 800mg/day. In the case of pregnancy or breast-feeding the RDA may differ, so it is worth checking this with a health professional.

Nature Power’s calcium magnesium drinking powder provides a good source of calcium: click here to buy some today!

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