As we continue the series on trace minerals, we will look at copper, which is the third most abundant trace mineral in the body, and a vital one at the that. Copper is at the core of normal body function. Without it, we cannot form superoxide dismutase (SOD), the superpower of all antioxidants. Copper also helps our bodies create collagen, the protein that forms healthy joints and supple, young skin. It also has a role in helping our bodies store iron, a critical component of the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells.
While actual deficiency is rare, some health experts believe that the average person eating a typical Western diet, could benefit from a small amount of supplemental copper. Continue reading “Trace Minerals: Copper”
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Next in our series A to Zinc, we look at trace minerals. Trace minerals, or microminerals, are required in far smaller amounts (less than 100 mg/day) than macrominerals. Each has a specific biochemical function in the human body. There are 17 microminerals, and arguably the most well-known and supplemented is Iron.
We are finally feeling spring-like weather and, unfortunately for many people, the warmer spring air brings runny noises and watery, itchy eyes. This condition is known as rhinitis, an inflammation of the mucous membranes in the nose, and it causes sneezing, runny noses and a constant feeling of being stuffed up.
Potassium is considered one of 5 major minerals along with calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and sodium. One of the benefits of potassium is to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. It’s also the third most abundant mineral in the body and a required mineral for the function of several organs, including the heart, kidneys, brain and muscular tissues. Potassium also plays an important role in keeping the body hydrated and works with sodium to support cellular function with your body’s sodium-potassium pump.
In my last blog, I wrote about the importance of 
