What it means
The body uses minerals to build bones and teeth, make hormones and enzymes, carry oxygen and keep nerves, muscles and the heart working. Major minerals, needed in larger amounts, include calciumKAL-see-umA mineral that builds bones and teeth and that nerves, muscles, the heart and blood clotting need to work.Full entry , phosphorus, magnesium, sodiumSOH-dee-umA mineral in the blood that controls how water moves in the body and helps nerves and muscles work.Full entry and potassiumpuh-TAS-ee-umA mineral in the blood that nerves and muscles, including the heart, need in order to work.Full entry ; trace minerals, needed in tiny amounts, include iron, zinc and iodine.
For the nurse
Teach food sources, and check for interactions: iron and calcium supplements can block the absorption of some drugs, such as levothyroxine and certain antibiotics, if taken at the same time.
At a glance
| Spanish | mineral |
|---|---|
| Also written | minerals |
Related terms
potassium
A mineral in the blood that nerves and muscles, including the heart, need in order to work.
electrolyte
A mineral that carries an electric charge when dissolved in body fluids, such as sodium, potassium, calcium and chloride.
calcium
A mineral that builds bones and teeth and that nerves, muscles, the heart and blood clotting need to work.
sodium
A mineral in the blood that controls how water moves in the body and helps nerves and muscles work.
vitamin
A substance the body needs in small amounts for normal growth and function, mostly from food.
supplement
A product taken to add vitamins, minerals, herbs or other substances to the diet.