Nutrition Science and Everyday Application - beta v 0.1

CLASSIFICATION OF VITAMINS AND MINERALS 443
Classification of Minerals
Minerals are classified as either major minerals or trace minerals, depending on the amount
needed in the body. Major minerals are those that are required in the diet in amounts
larger than 100 milligrams each day. These include sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium,
phosphorus, magnesium, and sulfur. These major minerals can be found in many foods.
While deficiencies are possible with minerals, consuming a varied diet significantly improves
an individual’s ability to meet their nutrient needs. We’ll discuss the concern of both
deficiencies and toxicities of specific minerals later in this unit.
Trace minerals are classified as minerals required in the diet in smaller amounts,
specifically 100 milligrams or less per day. These include iron, copper, zinc, selenium, iodine,
chromium, fluoride, manganese, and molybdenum. Although trace minerals are needed in
smaller amounts, a deficiency of a trace mineral can be just as detrimental to your health as
a major mineral deficiency.