Functions Of Minerals

Functions Of Minerals

Question 1. Functions of minerals.
Answer.

Functions

Intracellular calcium is involved in:

• Muscle contraction.
• Release of hormones, neurotransmitters, and neuromodulators.
• Activation of several enzymes.
• Glycogen metabolism.
• Cell division.

Functions of Minerals in the Body

Extracellular calcium provides calcium ions for the:

• Maintenance of intracellular calcium.
• Bone mineralisation.
• Blood coagulation.
• Membrane excitability.
• Plasma membrane potential.

Essential Functions of Major and Trace Minerals

Question 2. Factors affecting iron absorption.
Answer.

Factors Which Decrease Iron Absorption

Importance of Minerals for Bone Health and Metabolism

• Phytates present in corn, soy, and cereals decrease iron absorption
• Oxalates, present in leafy vegetables and chocolates, decrease iron absorption
• A diet with high phosphorus content decreases iron absorption
• Tea, coffee, and eggs decrease iron absorption
• Dietary fibers decrease iron absorption
• Alkaline pH decreases iron absorption
• Impaired absorption of iron is found in malabsorption syndromes such as steatorrhea
• In patients with partial or total surgical removal of stomach/intestine, iron absorption is impaired
• Parasitic infection (hookworm) decreases iron absorption