Food Intake in Human Beings - Coursework Example

Minerals can be considered to have essential roles in living organisms, thus, although their sources are from non-living organisms, a proper amount which is commonly in trace contents in food are fundamental to the health and nutrition of people.  In amounts that are above or below the recommended intake, certain health conditions can be incurred (Table 1).  Some of the essential macro and trace minerals are calcium, chromium, copper, fluoride, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium, and zinc (Linus Pauling Institute).

Table 1.  The diseases are due to a lack or excess of macro and trace minerals.

                                    Deficiencies

Calcium                      abnormal parathyroid function

Chromium                  problems in glucose utilization; the need for insulin increases that

                                    can lead to diabetes development.

Copper                        decrease in the important components of the blood which can lead to

neutropenia and even osteoporosis due to malfunctions in the blood

Fluoride                      dental caries or tooth decay

Iodine                         hyperthyroidism, goiter, hypothyroidism

Magnesium                 abnormal development of bone mass due to deficiency in osteoclasts

Source: (Linus Pauling Institute).

            The data presented are some of the trace minerals.  It can be considered that although the said macro and trace chemicals are present in such a small amount, their absence can greatly affect the functioning of the organ systems of humans.

            Chromium is one of the most interesting minerals due to the fact that it can occur as a toxin that can greatly damage the human body while at the same time recognized as an essential mineral.  Due to the damaging and disruptive effects of chromium as a heavy metal, it had been recognized as a carcinogen.  In trace amounts though, it functions in immunostimulation and immunosuppression which are both essential for control in the processes of the immune system (Shrivastava et al. 1).

            Based on the study of the nutritional condition of the populations in different regions specifically the US, it can be considered that information dissemination and the proper distribution of knowledge regarding nutritional habits and techniques are able to improve the health of the population.  In addition, a balanced diet that is composed of different nutrients and minerals can still be considered the simplest way to be able to improve and maintain health.