Zinc also helps transport vitamin A from the liver to the skin. Low zinc levels can lead to birth complications, learning disabilities, damaged skin, slow healing of wounds, depressed appetite, and joint problems. Iodine is required to regulate the thyroid gland. Iodine deficiencies can lead to decreased metabolism, fatigue, and in some cases cancer. It also helps convert beta carotene to vitamin A. Selenium is one of the most important antioxidants in the body, it helps vitamin E protect cells and body tissues by destroying free radicals.
Selenium supports the immune system and neutralizes invading toxins.
Low levels of selenium can lead to arthritis, heart disease, and cancers. Copper s many functions include being part of hundreds of proteins and enzymes, developing red blood cells, strengthening blood vessels and bones, and enhancing fertility. It may even fight cancer as an antioxidant. Deficiencies result in anemia, nervous disorders, high cholesterol, heart conditions, and skeletal damage. Manganese does a little bit of everything, from building bones to fighting cancer cells as an antioxidant.