Minerals

Question 1

Calcium Function

Answer 1

Needed for strong bones and teeth (needed by growing children to help build strong bones and teeth), healthy nerves and muscles, and blood clotting.

Question 2

Calcium Sources

Answer 2

Milk / cheese / tofu / green leafy veg / hard water / sesame seeds.

Question 3

Calcium Excess and Deficiency

Answer 3

Excess: rare, but can cause kidney stones or could stop kidneys working as excess is stored in these organs.
Deficiency: in childhood, causes rickets, osteoporosis, and can slow down blood clotting.

Question 4

Iron Function

Answer 4

Needed to form part of haemoglobin (red blood cells).

Question 5

Iron Sources

Answer 5

Dark green veg (spinach) / meat (liver+kidney).

Question 6

Iron Excess and Deficiency

Answer 6

Excess: poisonous, can cause stomach pains, nausea and constipation; death in serious cases.
Deficiency: anaemia.

Question 7

Sodium Function

Answer 7

Sodium chloride controls body’s water content, and helps our nerves and muscles to function.

Question 8

Sodium Sources

Answer 8

Most foods contain salt / many people add it.

Question 9

Sodium Excess and Deficiency

Answer 9

Excess: high blood pressure, and heart disease.
Deficiency: nausea, and muscle cramps.

Question 10

Phosphorus Function

Answer 10

Needed for healthy bones and teeth.

Question 11

Phosphorus Sources

Answer 11

Protein-rich foods - meat / fish / dairy products / nuts / beans / cereals.

Question 12

Phosphorus Excess and Deficiency

Answer 12

Excess: harder to absorb calcium.
Deficiency: weak muscles and painful bones.