The mineral salts, important constituents of the cells and the various tissues of the body, are assumed above all by drinking water as well as by eating fruit and vegetables, preferably fresh and in season.
To avoid the lack of mineral salts it is therefore essential to eat properly, drinking at least two liters of water and consuming five portions of fruit and vegetables every day.
Where are the mineral salts
Mineral salts are a very broad category and therefore their presence in this or that food depends on the specific type; in addition to vegetables, many other foods also contain a certain quantity; for example, whole grains are a good source of iron, copper and manganese; milk and dairy products supply calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, sulfur and molybdenum; tea contains a good amount of fluoride, salt is rich in sodium.
In general, therefore, in the absence of conditions that favor deficiency conditions, a varied and balanced diet is sufficient to guarantee all the necessary nutrients, including mineral salts.
People who carry out intense physical activity, especially at a competitive level, are more likely to suffer from a lack of mineral salts, so their diet must be carefully followed by a specialist.
The use of mineral salt supplements can only be recommended following a thorough analysis by a doctor. If, in fact, the lack of mineral salts is dangerous for the organism, the excess is equally dangerous.
Conditions that favor the lack of mineral salts
Athletes, as we said, are more exposed to the risk of a lack of mineral salts, but there are other predisposing factors in healthy subjects:
- pregnancy ;
- stress ;
- exposure to extreme weather conditions: too hot or too cold;
- taking some medications;
- cigarette smoke ;
- excessive intake of coffee or alcohol ;
- exposure to air pollution ;
- presence of pesticides, heavy metals, nitrites in food;
- incorrect and unbalanced diet.
