Trace minerals, also referred to as microminerals, are minerals found at smaller quantities in water, soil, plants, and living tissues. Trace minerals are also a smaller part of the human diet. Major minerals are different as they are required in greater quantities and include calcium, potassium, and magnesium to name a few.
Examples of trace minerals may include iodine, zinc, selenium, boron, lithium, and around 50-70 others that may be found in the soil or natural bodies of water. Some people take trace mineral supplements because it is thought that modern agricultural practices and pollution have caused a reduction in the number of minerals found naturally in the food and water we drink.
Using these supplements is thought to help restore these lost minerals that are essential to the many functions of the body. Keep reading to find why you may want to consider a trace mineral supplements and what brands you should consider.
Potential Health Benefits
As mentioned, there are potentially 70 or more minerals that support the health of the body. The most common and well researched trace minerals include:
- Chromium – Helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Copper – Supports the production of blood, collagen, neurotransmitters, and others.
- Fluorine – Help binds calcium in bones.
- Iodine – Supports thyroid health, hormone production, and energy levels.
- Iron – Supports blood production, enzyme functioning, and production of collagen, elastin, neurotransmitters.
- Manganese and molybdenum – Supports enzyme function.
- Selenium – Supports the function of antioxidants.
- Zinc – Immune system health, eyesight, and enzyme activity.
Trace minerals are found in plants, animal products, and even tap water. You may also be exposed to them by swimming in natural bodies of water. Some trace minerals are even thought to absorb through the skin, but this research is inconclusive.
Trace Mineral Supplements
Trace mineral supplements seek to fill nutritional gaps that may occur from the foods you eat or the water you drink. Not all supplements are formulated the same, however. Some contain major minerals as well. So before choosing a supplement, look at each product and consider your individual needs.
- SunWarrior offers Liquid Light Fulvic Minerals, a plant-based formula made from the runoff of decaying plants that feed local soil and bodies of water. This runoff contains nutrients that normally help to support the growth of new plants. When taken as a supplement, this formula is thought to support overall wellbeing and the “growth†of energy in the body.
- Standard Process offers Trace Minerals-B12, a vitamin and trace mineral formula made from a proprietary blend of vegetation from land and sea. This formula seeks to support the healthy function of enzymatic reactions in the body.
- Douglas Laboratories offers Spectramin Chelate, an iron-free mineral supplement made from chelated minerals that are thought to provide optimal bioavailability. This formula seeks to be comprehensive and may help to support many of the individual biological functions that occur in the body each day.
In addition to the above brands and formulas, you can use trace minerals for other purposes too, including the remineralization of distilled water, or for the soil in your garden.
When taking a trace mineral supplement for yourself, make sure to speak with your primary care physician first, and don’t exceed the recommended dose shown on the label or what is suggested by your doctor. Taking too many trace minerals can be toxic.
When used appropriately, trace minerals may provide feelings of health and wellness throughout the body.
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