Why Are Minerals Essential for Our Health?

Minerals make up about 4% of the human body. They are essential for building body components and maintaining proper functioning. Minerals are consistently present in our natural environment and can be found in rocks, sand, and the water surrounding the Earth's crust. They play vital roles in the body, such as building the skeleton, bones, muscles, and skin. They are also crucial in fertility processes and fetal development. Our immune system's function is influenced by minerals, aiding in energy production in cells, blood production in bone marrow, digestive system functioning, and maintaining the body's acid-base and electrolyte balance.

Minerals are found in various foods, water, and plants. Root vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and more are rich sources. One of the richest sources is sea-lake algae, which absorb many minerals from water, as well as sprouts, whole seeds, and herbal teas.

Why do people experience mineral deficiencies?

1. Spoiled and processed foods. All processed foods have lost nutritional value, so it's best to consume whole foods as Hashem provided them, without peeling or refining. Doing so avoids mineral loss.

2. Inadequate stomach acid can lead to poor calcium and iron absorption, causing deficiencies. Without sufficient hydrochloric acid production, the body doesn't absorb calcium. Acid reducers like "Losec" and diuretics like "Fusid" lead to mineral loss through urine because the body doesn't absorb them.

3. Excessive sweating also causes mineral loss through skin sweat. Naturally, when it's hot outside, Hashem created sweating to cool the body. Therefore, when sweating, drink plenty to avoid mineral deficiencies. Saunas can also lead to significant mineral loss, so limit sessions to 10 minutes. Vomiting and diarrhea also result in mineral loss, so it’s vital to prevent dehydration and replenish minerals with special mineral-containing powders.

How to replenish minerals? With whole foods, lake algae. Taking 3 capsules of alfalfa daily can be especially helpful for nursing mothers and those experiencing weakness and hair loss. Herbal teas and leafy greens are also important mineral sources.

In the coming weeks, we'll discuss various minerals and their important roles in body function and skeletal formation.

Note: Last week, we discussed the benefits of turmeric. It's important to note that those taking blood-thinning medications should avoid using turmeric.

For booking home workshops with Rabbanit Rachel Bazri, call 073-2221240 or 052-9551588