Minerals
Minerals are naturally occurring elements found in the earth, fragmented by erosion, passed from the soil to plants by microbes and then consumed for proper cell function and structure. Minerals are necessary for proper composition of body fluids, the formation of blood and bone, maintenance of healthy nerve function, and the regulation of muscle tone. They function as coenzymes, enabling energy production, growth, and healing.

All enzyme activities involve minerals and therefore are essential for proper utilization of vitamins and other co-factors that maintain proper chemical balance.

Mineral deficiencies are common because of the depleted soils used for years of harvesting. crops, leaching of the soils by irrigation and erosion, poor dietary habits resulting from the shift toward mineral deficient fast-foods and away from mineral rich raw fruits and vegetables. Minerals are grouped into two categories:

Bulk Minerals (Macrominerals) because they are needed in larger quantities and include calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus.
 
Trace Minerals (Microminerals) which are needed in smaller amounts, but are equally as important for good health and proper body function and include boron, chromium, copper, germanium, iodine, iron, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, silicon, sulfur, vanadium, and zinc.