Weight Loss – Why We Need Minerals

MINERALS are basic elements found in the soil. Plants pick up
these elements naturally. When we eat these plants [or animals
who have eaten the plants], we absorb these minerals into our
own tissues.

SODIUM, POTASSIUM, MAGNESIUM and CALCIUM are minerals the body
requires in large amounts, the focus of this report will be on
these four minerals. There are many other minerals the body uses
but the amounts are very small.

SODIUM, known as salt, regulates the water distribution in our
bodies. Salt is the most abundant mineral in our blood and
active people need it. Low salt levels will cause dehydration
and muscle cramps.

This does not mean piling on extra salt while cooking or eating,
we get enough salt depending on the foods we eat. Meat, fish,
chicken, grains, and nuts contain salt.

Other foods high in salt: milk and margarine [except those
advertised as low salt], canned foods, ketchup, popcorn, potato
chips, french fries and sauerkraut.

According to a Harvard Medical School study, all our body
requires is 0.2 grams of salt per day. Too much salt causes
dehydration, potassium loss and serious medical problems.

POTASSIUM is a mineral that controls muscle heat and nerve
conduction [the transmission of nerve impulses]. When we
exercise and feel weak and tired, it’s usually low mineral
levels in muscle cells. Lack of Potassium is a common cause and
there is no warning system to tell you this, unless a blood test
is performed.

When exercising, muscle produces heat; Potassium released by the
muscle prevents overheating by increasing blood flow. Sweat and
urine excrete Potassium so replacing it is vital.

Fruit juices have high levels of Potassium, drinking generous
amounts will replenish low levels of this mineral. Other
Potassium rich foods are: fruits and vegetables, molasses,
pecans, rye, flour, soy beans, walnuts and wheat germ.

MAGNESIUM helps to control muscle contraction and regulates the
conversion of carbohydrates to energy. Low magnesium levels
cause fatigue and muscle cramps.

A U.S. Department Of Agriculture report states that 36% of
Magnesium is supplied through dairy products and meat. Other
recommended foods are dark bread, nuts, and green leafy
vegetables.

Believe it or not, beer is a great source of magnesium. Some
professional athletes have been known to hit the beer cooler as
a post game recovery drink.

CALCIUM is the most abundant mineral and the main structural
material for bones and teeth. Calcium controls muscle
contraction and regulates most of the chemical reactions in our
body.

Unless you are growing, pregnant or nursing, calcium
requirements are low. If your body needs calcium, your own bones
will supply it.

Sources of calcium: almonds, asparagus, beans, cabbage,
cauliflower, cheese, egg yolk, figs, lentils, milk, nuts,
sardines and turnip greens.

Combining these four minerals into your daily diet will increase
energy levels and add some snap to your exercise routine!

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