Minerals and Water Function Essay

Minerals and Water Function Essay
Kimberly Carter
July 7, 2012
Karen Paling
SCI/241

There are only two main functions of minerals in the body, to build body structures, and help in bodily functions. Some minerals are need in large amounts and are called macroelements, others are needed in much smaller doses, and these are called microelements. Some minerals such as calcium are used to build strong teeth and bones, but also to help in blood clotting and nerve function. The best sources of minerals are fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, of all of these green leafy vegetables are the best of these sources. Some minerals are hard to get from the fruit or vegetable so to get the most minerals out of the vegetable or fruit some dietitians recommend juicing them. This separates the minerals from the fibers of the plant.
Coconut water is an excellent source of the minerals that your body needs. It has vitamins minerals enzymes and minerals. It is also low in sugar and fat. It can be used orally or used intravenously. It has almost the same chemical makeup of human blood. Coconut water is used to treat dehydration and malnutrition. Doctors also use coconut water to help treat diseases that cause dehydration such as dysentery, the flu, and cholera. Some professional sports teams have even began using it to rehydrate instead of commercial sports drinks. (Summer 2010/2011)
Water helps to regulate body temperature, lubricate joints, helps to dissolve nutrients and minerals so that the body can use them. Almost all of the body’s major systems depend on water to function properly. The average male in good health need around three liters or 13 cups of liquid a day, and the average female in good health need around nine cups per day.(www.mayoclinic.com) Dehydration happens when you lose more water than you can take into your body. This can happen when you sweat or just by not taking in enough water. Some causes of dehydration are diarrhea, vomiting, and conditions that limit the intake of water such as being unconscious.

References:
Fife, Bruce. Natural Health and Vegetarian Life, Summer 2010/2011 p42, 1p www.blurtit.com www.sharecare.com www.mayoclinic.com www.livestrong.com

References: Fife, Bruce. Natural Health and Vegetarian Life, Summer 2010/2011 p42, 1p www.blurtit.com www.sharecare.com www.mayoclinic.com www.livestrong.com