By Karen Morris
Do you really know the importance of minerals in optimising health and managing chronic disease?
Nutrients and minerals are the building blocks of our bodies. Some of the functions of minerals include immune function, synthesis of haemoglobin and red and white blood cells, metabolic regulation, bone health, formation of connective tissue, cognitive function and energy production.
They are involved in the process of hundreds of chemical reactions and numerous functions in the body!
When you are not getting adequate nutrients and minerals from foods you eat, or from the sun (Vitamin D), deficiencies can occur that can create reactions in the body, causing certain disorders and illnesses.
The most common nutrient and mineral deficiencies are:
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin C
- Zinc
- Iodine
Iron deficiency may feel and look like:
- Excessive tiredness
- Lethargic
- Mood disturbances, low mood
- Be prone to more infections
- Easily prone to bruising
Magnesium deficiency may result in:
- Cramps
- Muscle twitches
- Sleep disturbances
- Drawn out pain and longer recovery after exercise
- Anxiety
Iodine deficiency may include:
- Impaired mental function
- Reduced work efficiency and capacity
- Decreased cognitive ability
- Impaired neurological development
- Impaired Thyroid hormone regulation
Ample research has shown the benefits of taking certain minerals and supplements positively affect the outcomes of certain conditions.
For example, taking iron, zinc and selenium together, has been shown to increase thyroid hormone production in people suffering from hypothyroidism.
Getting enough iron plays a significant role in the production of haemoglobin and red blood cells. It’s required for energy metabolism, neuron development and delivering enough oxygen to the bloodstream and body tissues. It is however to note that too much iron may be toxic to cells, so it’s important to consult with your Naturopath for the right dosing.
Taking the right kinds of minerals, nutrients and supplements with correct dosing can repair deficiencies and certain health disorders. Together with dietary changes, supplementation can have a powerful effect on your health.
For Magnesium deficiency, we recommend Magnesium Citrate Powder, as it’s the most easily absorbed in your digestive tract than other forms.
However, if you’re not up for powders, we also have Tripple Magnesium in capsule form, with three different types of magnesium and easy to take.
Our favourite Iron Supplement is Spatone. It comes in a liquid sachet which you can mix with any of your preferred drinks. Spatone is a 100% natural Iron Supplement, gentle on the stomach and less likely to cause constipation associated with high iron intake.
If you are not getting enough Vitamin D, which most people aren’t, we recommend our Liquid Vitamin D Drops, which help to support and maintain a healthy immune function.
We also really love our Liposomal Vitamin C, again in a liquid, as it’s easily absorbable and helps to prevent and relieve the symptoms of virus-induced respiratory infections.
Vitamin C can also be taken in a powder form, helps symptoms of cold and flu and is a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells in the body.
For Zinc, we recommend our Zinc Sulfate Liquid Drops. Supporting a healthy immune function and reducing the risk of infection, zinc is another must-have for your daily health regime.
If you are unsure, please book an appointment with Karen, our qualified Naturopath and she will go through your blood test results with you and create a plan for you, prescribed for your individualised health needs.
Most common deficiencies can be restored quite quickly with short-term supplementation and are always best when guided by your Naturopath. Once you start your protocol, it’s easy to maintain and stay healthy!