Briefly Describe about the Micro Minerals?

The last unit focused on the macro minerals. Now in this unit we will study about the micro minerals, namely, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, chromium, manganese, iodine and fluorine. We will study the food sources, functions, metabolism and methods of assessing status of these important micro minerals.

Objectives:

After studying this unit, you will be able to:

• Differentiate between macro and micro minerals,
• List important food sources of micro minerals,
• Describe the absorption and metabolic fate of each mineral,
• Explain the nutritional and biochemical role of various micro minerals and relate them to physiological functions and symptoms of inadequate intakes, and
• Select appropriate methods for assessing status.