Other Minerals

What are the effects of selenium, potassium and other minerals?

Selenium ranks among the most important minerals in our body. It supports the normal functioning of the immune system and thyroid gland. Moreover, it beneficially affects the health of skin, hair and nails. On top of that, it ranks among antioxidants, which enables it to protect cells from oxidative stress. Last but not least, selenium also positively affects reproductive health, as it contributes to normal spermatogenesis. The recommended daily serving is 55 µg.  

Potassium is yet another mineral, without which our body could not function. It promotes optimal nervous system function, which is in charge of controlling organ function across the body. Moreover, it helps maintain normal blood pressure. Athletes should pay extra attention to its intake, as it ensures proper muscle function as well. It also ranks among electrolytes, which are essential for optimal hydration. Usually, it is lost through sweat during strenuous physical activity or in hot weather, which increases the need for replenishing this mineral. The recommended daily serving is 2 g.   

Chromium is also involved in a number of important processes throughout the body. It contributes to an optimal metabolism of macronutrients, that is, carbohydrates, fats and proteins, which constitute the basis of our diet. From a nutritional point of view, its effect on maintaining normal blood glucose (sugar) levels is no less important. This is also the reason it is a common part of products that help reduce sweet cravings. The recommended daily serving is 40 µg.

Copper is an essential mineral that supports overall health, as it promotes the optimal functioning of the immune and nervous systems. That said, it is also crucial for a healthy appearance, as it promotes proper pigmentation of both hair and skin. Finally, it ranks among antioxidants and, just like selenium, it helps protect cells from oxidative stress. The recommended daily serving is 1 mg.

Iodine is known in particular for its effect on the amount of energy that our body consumes. It contributes to a balanced energy metabolism and promotes the production of thyroid hormones, which are fundamentally involved in these functions. In addition, it is also important for maintaining the proper functioning of the nervous system as well as cognitive functions such as memory, attention or concentration. The recommended daily serving is 150 µg.

Boron ranks among trace elements that you only need to receive in small quantities. Despite this, it is a mineral of great importance for human health. It is most often linked with possible beneficial effects on blood testosterone levels and cognitive functions such as thinking and memory, as well as bone health.  The recommended daily serving is not established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

If you want to learn more about the effects of minerals, come and check out our article A Complete Guide to Minerals: Functions, Recommended Daily Intake, Deficiencies.