Minerals Flashcards
What are minerals?
Inorganic substances essential to human nutrition
They always retain their properties and chemical identity.
What are the two groups of minerals?
Major minerals and trace elements
Major minerals are present in amounts greater than 5g, while trace elements are present in smaller quantities.
List major minerals.
- Calcium
- Phosphorous
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Chloride
List trace elements.
- Iron
- Zinc
- Manganese
- Copper
- Iodide
- Chromium
- Cobalt
- Selenium
What is the average amount of calcium found in the adult body?
1200g
What is bioavailability?
Degree the nutrient from food is absorbed and utilized in the body
Factors affecting bioavailability include cooking, deficiency, and interactions with other nutrients.
Which vitamin enhances iron absorption?
Vitamin C
Which vitamin enhances calcium absorption?
Vitamin D
What are oxalates?
Compounds found in many vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, spices, herbs, and almost all nuts that inhibit iron absorption
They combine with iron to form iron oxide.
What is the role of calcium in the body?
Essential for bone health, muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve impulses.
What percentage of calcium is found in bones and teeth?
99%
What is hydroxyapatite?
Crystals formed by calcium and phosphorus that harden bones and teeth.
What is the normal range for blood calcium levels?
2.2-2.6 mmol/L
What occurs in hypercalcaemia?
Muscles contract but cannot relax (calcium rigor).
What occurs in hypocalcaemia?
Uncontrolled muscle spasms (calcium tetany).
What enhances calcium absorption from the diet?
- Vitamin D
- Lactose
- Protein
What inhibits calcium absorption?
- Phytic acid
- Oxalates
- NSPs
What is the DRV for calcium for adults aged 19-50 years?
700 mg/day
What are good dietary sources of calcium?
- Milk
- Cheese
- Eggs
- Yogurts
- Fortified bread and flour
- Green leafy vegetables
- Tinned fish with bones
What is phosphorus’s role in the body?
Bone and teeth development, energy storage and transfer, and maintaining normal pH levels.
What is the RNI for phosphorus for adults aged 19-50 years?
550 mg/day
What is sodium’s primary function?
Major role in fluid and electrolyte balance.
What is chloride’s primary function?
Essential for the transport of CO2 in red blood cells and formation of hydrochloric acid.
What is the RNI for sodium for those aged 11 years and older?
1.6g/day (4g of salt)
