Minerals: What They Do, Where to Get Them

Mineral Needed For Good Sources
Calcium Healthy bones and teeth, nerve conduction, muscle contraction, blood clotting, production of energy, immunity to disease Dairy products, green leafy vegetables
Chlorine Maintaining body’s fluid and electrolyte balances, digestive juices Table salt
Magnesium Every major biologic process, use of glucose in the body, synthesis of nucleic acids and protein, cellular energy Green leafy vegetables, fish, nuts, beans, whole grains
Phosphorus Strong bones, all cell functions, cell membranes Dairy products, fish, meats, poultry, vegetables, eggs
Potassium Many major biologic processes, muscle contraction, nerve impulses, synthesis of nucleic acids and protein, energy production Fresh vegetables, fresh fruits
Sodium Water balance in tissues Table salt, added to foods by manufacturer
Sulfur Sulfur-containing amino acids Onions, garlic, eggs, meat, dairy products