Question

Explain the important role of minerals in our body.

Answer 1

The human body requires certain minerals and vitamins for general growth and development. The minerals which are required in small quantities are known as micronutrients and those required in large quantities are known as macronutrients. Macronutrients are sodium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sulphur and chlorine. Certain other minerals are required in slightly lower concentration for performing useful functions. These include iron, copper, zinc, cobalt, manganese, iodine and fluorine (trace elements). Some important functions of these minerals are:

Sodium and potassium are used for nerve conduction and calcium is used during muscle contraction.