The Clinical Utility of Minerals : A snapshot
Part 2 .
Bradley McEwen | PhD , MHSc ( Hum Nutr ), BHSc , ND ( Adv ), DBM , DNutr , DSM , M . ATMS , Naturopath , Nutritionist , and Mentor . Adjunct Senior Lecturer , Faculty of Health , Southern Cross University .
Abstract
Minerals play a fundamental role in optimising health and managing chronic disease . This snapshot aims to introduce the clinical utility of the minerals copper , iodine , iron , manganese , molybdenum , and silica , such as the functions , deficiency signs and symptoms , and uses of these minerals . Some of the functions of these minerals include synthesis of haemoglobin and red and white blood cells , immune function , metabolic regulation , energy production , synthesis of neurotransmitters , bone mineralisation , bone health , formation of connective tissue , and cognitive function .
Introduction
Optimum nutrition is the foundation for optimum health . 1-3 A previous issue of JATMS introduced the clinical utility of the B Vitamins . 4 Although not exhaustive , this snapshot aims to introduce the clinical utility of the minerals copper , iodine , iron , manganese , molybdenum , and silica , such as the functions , deficiency signs and symptoms and uses of the minerals . Part 1 discussed calcium , chromium , magnesium , selenium , and zinc . 5
Copper
Copper is involved in more than 30 proteins essential for living organisms , for example , lysyl oxidase , cytochrome c oxidase , superoxide dismutase , 6 , 7 dopamine β-hydroxylase , and tyrosinase . 6 Copper participates in enzymatic mechanisms that protect against free radicals and toxic derivatives of oxygen . 8 It is involved in the synthesis of haemoglobin , 7 functioning of neurotransmitters , oxidation and transport of iron , cellular respiration , metabolism of glucose and cholesterol , and the formation of pigments and connective tissue . 7 It is involved in the synthesis of haemoglobin , 7 maturation of red and white blood cells , 7 and normal functioning of B cells , T helper cells , macrophages , natural killer cells , and cell-mediated immunity . 9 Copper is necessary for growth 7 and bone mineralisation , 7 stimulates the proliferation of dermal fibroblasts and is involved in the synthesis and stabilisation of extracellular matrix skin proteins and
JATMS | Winter 2022 | 81