Minerals Flashcards
what are the different types of minerals?
major minerals and trace minerals
what are the major minerals?
- calcium
- potassium
- phosphorus
- sodium chloride
what are the functions of calcium?
- works with phosphorus and vitamin D to build strong bones and teeth
- works with vitamin K needed for blood to clot
- needed for the normal functioning of muscles and nerves for the transmission of nerve signals to control muscles
what are some sources of calcium?
- dairy products such as milk, cheese and yoghurt
- fish either double bones such as sardines
- tofu
- vegetables such as watercress and cauliflower
what are the deficiency disease associated with calcium?
- osteoporosis
- osteomalacia
define osteoporosis
- thinning of bones and lose of bone density overtime
- fragile which increases the risk of fractures
what are some symptoms of osteoporosis?
- loss in height
- abnormal curvature of the spine
- hip fracture
define osteomalacia
- it occurs in young children
- it is also known as rickets
what are some symptoms of osteomalacia?
- bowing of the legs
- stunted growth
what is the toxicity for calcium?
- calcium toxicity which leads to the formation of kidney stones and kidney damage, preventing the absorption of other minerals
- skin disorders
what are the functions of potassium?
- works with sodium to regulate the movement of fluids and minerals into and out of our body cells
- essential for muscle development and nerve functions
what are some sources of potassium?
- milk and other dairy products
- fruits
- whole-grain products
- vegetables
- seafood
what is the deficiency disease associated with potassium?
-individuals with kidney diseases are prone to potassium deficiency
what are some symptoms of potassium deficiency?
- loss of appetite
- fatigue
- muscle weakness
what is the toxicity of potassium?
- individuals with kidney problems will not be able to excrete excess potassium
- this leads to high levels of potassium in the body which can ultimately lead to a heart attack
- kidney failure
what are the functions of phosphorus?
- works with vitamin D and calcium to build and maintain strong bones and teeth
- required for the conversion of carbohydrates and fats into energy
- required for the regulation of fluids in the body