Minerals can generally be categorized into two broad types: essential minerals and trace minerals.
Essential minerals are those that our bodies need in larger amounts for various functions such as building strong bones, making hormones, and regulating heartbeat. Examples of essential minerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride, and sulfur. These minerals play significant roles in maintaining our overall health, participating in processes like muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and hydration.
Trace minerals, on the other hand, are required in much smaller amounts but are still crucial for good health. They include iron, manganese, copper, iodine, zinc, cobalt, fluoride, and selenium. These trace minerals contribute to various biochemical processes, including the formation of enzymes and hormones, which are vital for growth and development.
In summary, the two types of minerals are essential minerals and trace minerals, each fulfilling unique and important roles in the body’s functioning.