• Minerals are inorganic chemical elements not attached to a carbon atom. They participate in many biochemical and physiological processes necessary for optimum growth, development and health. There is a clear and important distinction between the terms mineral and trace element. If the body requires more than 100 milligrams of a mineral each day, the substance is labeled mineral. If the body requires less than 100 milligrams of a mineral each day, the substance is labeled trace element.

• Many minerals are essential parts of enzymes. They also participate actively in regulating many physiological functions, including transporting oxygen to each of the body's 60 trillion cells, providing the stimulus for muscles to contract and in many ways guaranteeing normal function of the central nervous system. Minerals are required for the growth, maintenance, repair and health of tissues and bones. Some, such as selenium do this via forming antioxidants enzymes.

• Most minerals are widely distributed in foods. Severe mineral deficiency is unusual in the Western world. Of all essential minerals, only a few may be deficient in a typical diet. Even so, there are exceptions. Iron deficiency is common in infants, children and pregnant women. Zinc and copper deficiencies occur fairly frequently.