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Iron
Iron is one of the most necessary minerals needed for good health, as it allows for oxygen to be delivered to the body. Around two-thirds of the iron found in the human body is contained in hemoglobin--the protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen delivery to the tissues--while a minute amount of iron is found in myoglobin, which supplies oxygen to muscles. Iron deficiency results in fatigue, lethargy and decreased immunity to common diseases.
Magnesium
Magnesium, the fourth most abundant mineral in the human body, is found in the bone, body tissues, organs and blood, and is required to process some 300 biochemical reactions that occur in the body. Some of the benefits of magnesium include normalizing blood pressure, keeping the heart rate steady and bolstering the immune system. There is also evidence that proper magnesium intake prevents and stabilizes disorders such as heart disease, diabetes and hypertension.
Calcium
Calcium is the most abundant mineral found in the body, with 99 percent found in the bones (including the teeth), and the remainder in the blood and muscle tissue. This mineral is needed to ensure adequate muscle and blood vessel contraction, and secretion of various hormones. Bone is continuously undergoing the process of breakdown and resorption. Without calcium, bone loss may occur, increasing risk for osteoporosis in older adults.
Potassium
Potassium, in addition to being a mineral, is also an electrolyte, which, in conjunction with sodium, chloride, calcium and magnesium, help the body conduct electricity. Potassium is necessary for proper kidney and heart function, and is also critical to normal digestive and muscle function. Potassium is particularly essential to any medical condition that can cause its depletion, such as diarrhea, vomiting and profuse sweating, as well as conditions such as Crohn's Disease, which inhibit potassium absorption.
Zinc
Zinc is a required mineral that bolsters the immune system and rapid healing of flesh wounds. Additionally, it is required for normal development of the human body during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence. Unlike other necessary minerals, the human body does not have a designated "storage space" for zinc. Therefore, it must be ingested daily through a proper diet, or through dietary supplements.
Iodine
While humans need very little iodine, this trace mineral is one of the most essential to good health. After iodine is ingested, 75 percent is directed to the thyroid, which in turn, produces hormones needed to regulate metabolism. Iodine is particularly important for growing children, aiding in mental development and rate of growth.