Minerals 2

Question 1

What are microminerals?

Answer 1

Minerals required in small amounts (less than 100 mg daily) for proper bodily function.

Question 2

What are alternative names for microminerals?

Answer 2

Often called trace elements due to their minimal required quantities.

Question 3

What vital functions do microminerals serve?

Answer 3

Essential components for enzymes, hormones, and cellular functions.

Question 4

List examples of microminerals.

Answer 4

• Iron
• Zinc
• Copper
• Selenium
• Iodine
• Manganese
• Fluoride

Question 5

What is the role of iron in the body?

Answer 5

Forms the core of hemoglobin, enabling oxygen transport throughout the body.

Question 6

How does iron support the immune system?

Answer 6

Strengthens immune defenses against pathogens and infections.

Question 7

What are the impacts of iron deficiency?

Answer 7

Can lead to anemia, fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive function.

Question 8

What percentage of the body’s iron is found in hemoglobin?

Answer 8

65% of the body’s iron is in hemoglobin.

Question 9

What regulates iron balance in the body?

Answer 9

Regulated by alteration in intestinal absorption.

Question 10

What is the typical daily absorption rate of iron?

Answer 10

Only 1-3 mg is absorbed daily.

Question 11

List factors affecting iron absorption.

Answer 11

• Amount of iron in food
• Chemical status of ingested iron
• Presence of ferritin, apoferritin, and gastroferrin
• Availability of acidic medium in the stomach
• Normal intestine and suitable alkaline medium
• Presence of other chemicals in food (oxalate, phytate, tannic acid)

Question 12

What is the average menstrual blood loss in females?

Answer 12

About 35 ml of blood per cycle.

Question 13

How much iron is required to restore losses during menstruation?

Answer 13

0.6 mg of iron per day is required.

Question 14

What is the recommended dietary intake of copper for adults?

Answer 14

0.9 mg/day.

Question 15

What role does zinc play in the immune system?

Answer 15

Activates T-cells and supports antibody production for fighting infections.

Question 16

How does zinc contribute to wound healing?

Answer 16

Accelerates tissue repair and promotes proper cell division.

Question 17

What is the total body content of zinc?

Answer 17

2 – 2.5 g.

Question 18

What is selenium known for?

Answer 18

Defending cells against oxidative damage and inflammation.

Question 19

What essential function does selenium serve in the thyroid?

Answer 19

Essential for producing thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism and growth.

Question 20

What may selenium reduce the risk of?

Answer 20

Certain cancers through DNA repair and immune support.

Question 21

Fill in the blank: The body contains about ______ of iron.

Answer 21

4-5 g

Question 22

True or False: Iron absorption is not affected by the presence of other chemicals in food.

Answer 22

False

Question 23

What is the daily hemoglobin turnover for an adult?

Answer 23

About 25 mg per day.

Question 24

What happens to hemoglobin during growth?

Answer 24

The requirements for iron increase markedly.

Question 25

What are the functions of proteins that defend cells?

Answer 25

Defend against oxidative damage and inflammation ## Footnote These proteins play a crucial role in maintaining cellular health.

Question 26

What is the role of thyroid hormones?

Answer 26

Regulate metabolism and growth ## Footnote Thyroid hormones are essential for many bodily functions.

Question 27

How may certain nutrients reduce cancer risk?

Answer 27

Through DNA repair and immune enhancement ## Footnote This highlights the protective role of certain nutrients.

Question 28

List some food sources of essential nutrients.

Answer 28

* Nuts * Seafood * Meat * Whole grains ## Footnote These foods are rich in various essential nutrients.

Question 29

What is iodine's primary role in the body?

Answer 29

Thyroid regulator ## Footnote Iodine is critical for the production of thyroid hormones.

Question 30

What are the consequences of iodine deficiency?

Answer 30

* Goiter * Hypothyroidism * Developmental delays ## Footnote Iodine deficiency can lead to serious health issues.

Question 31

Key sources of iodine include:

Answer 31

* Iodized salt * Seaweed * Seafood * Dairy products ## Footnote These sources help prevent iodine deficiency.

Question 32

What is fluorine's role in dental health?

Answer 32

Incorporated into the structure of teeth and bone ## Footnote Fluorine helps in the formation of strong dental structures.

Question 33

What is the recommended dietary allowance of fluoride?

Answer 33

1.5—4 mg/day or 1-2 ppm ## Footnote Fluoride levels in drinking water are measured in parts per million (ppm).

Question 34

What happens with fluoride deficiency?

Answer 34

Leads to dental caries and osteoporosis ## Footnote Adequate fluoride intake is essential for dental health.

Question 35

What is dental fluorosis?

Answer 35

Condition resulting in patchy, dull white teeth ## Footnote Excessive fluoride can cause noticeable changes in tooth appearance.

Question 36

List the three main factors affecting mineral status.

Answer 36

* Dietary choices * Agricultural practices * Food processing ## Footnote These factors can influence the mineral content of foods.

Question 37

What is the importance of balanced intake of minerals?

Answer 37

Supports ideal health and efficient bodily functions ## Footnote Proper mineral ratios are crucial for overall well-being.

Question 38

What can result from excessive mineral intake?

Answer 38

Can be harmful and cause toxicity ## Footnote Some minerals have a toxic threshold that should not be exceeded.

Question 39

What dietary methods can help preserve micromineral content?

Answer 39

Mindful cooking and preservation methods ## Footnote Cooking practices can significantly affect nutrient retention.

Question 40

What should individuals do before starting supplements?

Answer 40

Consult healthcare providers to avoid imbalances ## Footnote Professional guidance is important for safe supplementation.

Question 41

What does regular medical testing help monitor?

Answer 41

Mineral status through appropriate medical testing ## Footnote Regular assessments can identify deficiencies or excesses.