1.)       Sodium

• Draws water into the blood to maintain a healthy blood pressure
• Is used in the function of nerves as it aids in their electrical current

Lack of it can causes

• Muscle cramps
• Confusion
• In extreme cases, coma and even death

2.)        Chloride

• Maintains the balance between fluid inside and outside the body’s cells. This helps to maintain proper blood pressure
• Maintains the balance between acidity and alkalinity of body fluids

Lack of it can lead to

• Muscle cramps or muscle twitching
• Breathing problems, weakness or confusion

3.)        Calcium

• Strengthens bones and teeth
• Is involved in the signaling which controls muscle function
• Is involved in nerve function
• Maintains a regular heartbeat

Lack of it causes

• Muscle cramps
• Irregular heartbeat which can be life-threatening
• Weakening or easy fracturing of bones
• Weakening of teeth

4.)        Potassium

• Aids in nerve function
• Maintains normal and regular heartbeat
• Is involved in the mechanism of contraction of muscles

Lack of it leads to

• Potentially fatal irregularities of the heartbeat
• Muscle cramps

5.)        Iron

• Is crucial in making of hemoglobin which carries oxygen in the blood
• Is needed for proper immune function
• Is used in making of substances called neurotransmitters that are essential for nerve function

Lack of it causes

• This is low levels of blood which cause easy fatigability, headaches and in extreme cases heart failure
• Recurrent infections
• Poor nerve function

6.)        Magnesium

• Aids in the production of energy and protein
• Aids in nerve and muscle function
• Is needed for development of strong healthy bones
• Aids in regulating the heartbeat

Deficiency causes

• Nerve conduction problems
• Muscle aches and soreness

7.)        Selenium

• Mops up free radicals. These are produced during metabolism. They cause damage to the cell DNA. This can predispose to cancer formation.
• It is also important for brain function.

Deficiency can cause

• Predisposition to development of cancer

8.)        Copper

• Helps in formation of red blood cells
• Aids in maintaining healthy bones
• Keeps the blood vessels healthy
• Aids in the absorption of iron from the intestines

Deficiency leads to

• Anemia which is low levels of blood
• Osteoporosis which is characterized by weak brittle bones

9.)        Manganese

• Aids in formation of connective tissues
• Aids in production of sex hormones which are important in reproductive health
• Important in production of blood clotting factors

Deficiency is associated with

• Osteoporosis
• Worse mood swings before monthly periods in women
• Arthritis

10.)     Chromium

• Aids in breakdown of carbohydrates and fats
• Important in the breakdown of insulin

Deficiency leads to

• Poor control of blood glucose causing episodes of high blood sugar

11.)     Zinc

• Enhances the action of insulin in breaking down sugars
• Aids the senses of smell and taste
• Essential in proper growth of small children

Lack of it is associated with

• Infertility in men
• Frequent infections
• Problems with taste and smell
• Prolonged time in wound healing

12.)     Molybdenum

• Facilitates enzymes to metabolize amino acids which are an important source of protein in the body

Deficiency is associated with nerve damage and eventual muscle paralysis.

13.)     Flouride

• Prevent tooth decay

Deficiency causes tooth decay.