Minerals are essential for many metabolic processes and are vital for human health. They occur naturally in soil and are taken up by plants, animals, and humans. Of the various minerals found in soil, some can be more beneficial to humans than others, depending on their form.
An important factor influencing nutrient uptake is the form of minerals contained in the soil. This is because different forms of minerals have different levels of bioavailability and absorption. Magnesium, selenium, and zinc are common minerals that can be found in soils around the world. Depending on the form in which these minerals are present, they may or may not be easily absorbed into the body.
For instance, magnesium oxide has a low bioavailability compared to other forms such as magnesium citrate or aspartate. Similarly, zinc sulphide has a lower bioavailability than other forms, such as zinc gluconate or acetate. In order for a mineral to be optimally absorbed into the body, it must be present in an absorbable form.
Therefore, it is important to consider the form of the mineral when looking at its potential benefits to human health. Different forms of minerals have different levels of bioavailability and absorption, so understanding which ones are most easily absorbed can be beneficial when trying to increase intake of certain minerals. By choosing foods with higher concentrations of absorbable forms of minerals, individuals can ensure they get adequate amounts for optimal health.
