Micro-Minerals
Micro-minerals are also referred to as trace minerals. They include Manganese, Copper, iodine, cobalt, fluoride, and Selenium. Generally, they are needed in small quantities but play a crucial role in children’s growth.
The benefits of micro-minerals are as follows:
For the production of necessary enzymes, vitamins, and hormones
- For healthy blood circulation
- Efficient nerve conduction
- Muscle growth and contraction
- To exhibit proper metabolism processes
This blog will discuss why these micro-minerals are considered nature’s mighty. Let’s examine the advantages of common micro-minerals for your child’s health.
Manganese:
Manganese is an essential micro-mineral as it plays a crucial role in the growth and development of the brain and body of kids.
Uses:
- In addition to Calcium and phosphorous, Manganese plays a significant role in bone formation.
- It ensures the proper functioning of the nervous system and is also valuable for muscle contraction.
- Manganese plays an essential role in enzyme reactions. It is responsible for the breakdown of carbohydrates and cholesterol.
Deficiency of Manganese:
The deficiency of Manganese can result in glucose intolerance, leading to diabetes risk. Also, it may result in poor healing of the skeletal and cartilaginous systems.
Source: Manganese is usually found in whole grains, nuts, legumes, berries, vegetables, and tea.
Usually, the amount of manganese intake depends upon the kid’s age. Eating fresh fruit is the best way to regulate your child’s manganese intake.
Copper:
It is another essential trace mineral occurring in all body tissues and vital for many body functions.
Uses:
- Acting as an antioxidant, Copper prevents damage to tissues of multiple organ systems in the body.
- Copper and iron play a vital role in the production of red blood cells.
- It helps in preserving the energy level.
- As Copper is most concentrated in the Liver and the brain, it is essential for a healthy cardiovascular, immune and nervous system.
Source: Copper is found in whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables, shellfish, and nuts.
Deficiency: The deficiency of Copper can cause bone lesions in infants
Iodine:
Iodine is very essential for the formation of thyroid hormones . Children need iodine for good health and proper growth.
Further, the thyroid regulates the metabolism of your child
It is essential for developing the brain and body, especially during fetal and infancy.
Source: Iodine is available in abundance in nature and is easy to obtain. Usually, most of the salt available on the market is iodinated. Other sources of iodine are milk, shellfish, Seawood, and seafood.
Deficiency: Iodine deficiency can cause brain damage in children. Also, it can cause swelling in the neck and weight gain.
Note: Iodine intake in excess is harmful. It can cause difficulty in breathing or allergies.
A typical diet provides more than an adequate amount of iodine.
Cobalt
Cobalt is a gray-colored hard metal, and it is part of vitamin B-12
Uses
- Formation of red blood cells
- Composition of vitamin B12, which is vital for good health
Source: It can be obtained from meat and dairy products.
Deficiency: Common symptoms of cobalt deficiency are weakness, paleness, fatigue, weight loss, poor growth, shortness of breathiness, dizziness, and watery eyes.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a crucial micro-mineral that helps kids develop healthily and keep their teeth strong.
Uses:
- Strengthening the enamel on teeth
- New bone formation
- Maintains the bone health
Deficiency: Too little fluoride can cause cavities, and in more severe cases, it can lead to tooth decay.
Source: Fluorides can be found in tea and seafood.
Also, they are found in toothpaste and fortified waters.
Pediatric dentists recommend the intake of tap water or bottled water fortified with fluoride for infants to prevent their teeth from decaying. Also, brushing their teeth with a small amount of fluoride-rich toothpaste is advisable.
Selenium
It is a natural chelating agent which binds with toxic heavy metals like mercury and leads to rendering the harm they may cause
Uses:
In conjunction with Vitamin-E, it works as a robust antioxidant reducing risk of abnormal cell growth.
It is responsible for boosting the immune system, which fights well against harmful bacteria and viruses.
Also, Selenium is required to regulate heart health and thyroid function.
Source:
Selenium is found in cereals, fish, meat, egg, and Brazil nuts.
Legumes, fruits, and vegetables also contain Selenium, commonly found in soils.
Deficiency: The deficiency of Selenium can cause muscle weakness and fatigue in the kids
Note: Excessive levels of Selenium can cause nausea, hair loss, skin problems, and nerve damage.
Consult a Pediatrician for the required amount of Selenium you should give your child in supplements.
Conclusion
In this blog, we have discussed why micro-minerals are essential for children’s health. But it is advisable to note that do not give any supplement to your child without taking consultation from the pediatrician.
If your child has health concerns, book an appointment and consult with expert pediatricians at Sun Pediatrics.
We at Sun Pediatrics strive to provide the best healthcare facilities to your children. You can choose us for your child’s best and most gentle healthcare.
