Minerals are inorganic elements that are found in both living and non-living things.
Once a mineral is absorbed into a plant or animal it becomes biologically bound into the organic plant or animal system, but still remains inorganic in nature. Although only relatively small amounts of minerals are required, they are absolutely essential to normal mental and physical functioning. The body's only source for minerals is the diet. It must provide an adequate daily supply to maintain optimum health and fitness. If less than 100 mg are needed for normal functioning, they are called either 'microminerals' or 'trace' minerals.