Key Minerals for Peak Performance
Minerals might seem boring, but they're absolutely crucial for everything from strong teeth to preventing muscle cramps during PE lessons.
Calcium strengthens your teeth and bones, promotes growth in children, and keeps your nerves and muscles functioning properly. Not getting enough leads to weak bones and poor blood clotting - definitely not ideal when you're still growing.
Iron is a superstar mineral that supports haemoglobin in red blood cells, which transport oxygen around your body. It's commonly deficient in teenage girls due to menstruation, leading to anaemia and constant tiredness.
Magnesium supports your immune system, aids bone and teeth growth, and keeps your body energised. Without enough, you might experience muscle spasms, migraines, and weakness. Iodine regulates hormones in your thyroid gland - deficiency makes you tired and causes poor thyroid function.
Sodium regulates water in your body and controls nerve and muscle function, but too much causes high blood pressure and heart disease. Water itself is essential for normal brain function, blood pressure, bowel movements, and temperature regulation.
Remember: Most mineral deficiencies can be avoided by eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and varied protein sources.