For example, iron is an important part of hemoglobin, which keeps oxygen in the blood. Iodine is a part of the thyroid hormones, and selenium is part of the important antioxidant, glutathione peroxidase. These are present in such small amounts it is hard to study if they are truly essential to life. Minerals are more stable than vitamins. The mineral content of certain foods is influenced by the mineral content of the soil in which the foods are grown.
Cooking utensils can also add minerals to food.
The 17 minerals listed here are essential to life but are needed in very small amounts. Getting too much of any of these minerals can be toxic. By visiting this site, you agree to the terms and conditions of our Visitor Agreement .