Trace elements are essential for health, despite their low levels in the body. A deficiency of certain trace elements can lead to serious health problems.

 

Iron deficiency, for example, leads to anaemia, zinc deficiency to growth disorders and hair loss.

 

These are the most important trace elements and their functions in the body:

 

Chrome Regulates the blood sugar level. Daily requirement 50 to 200 μg.

 

Iron ensures the transport of oxygen in the blood and the production of blood pigment. Daily requirement 10 to 12mg

 

Fluorine ensures the growth of bones and teeth. Daily requirement 1.5 to 4mg.

 

Iodine is a component of thyroid hormones. Daily requirement 200μg.

 

Copper is responsible for the production of nerve fibres, blood formation and connective tissue metabolism. Daily requirement 1.5mg.

 

Manganese Activates enzymes and supports blood clotting. Daily requirement 2 to 5mg.

 

Molybdenum Regulates cell metabolism, fluorine storage and is a component of enzymes. Daily requirement 0.5mg.

 

Nickel is responsible for metabolism, haematopoiesis and regeneration. Daily requirement 0.2 to 0.5 mg.

 

Selenium is an antioxidant and protects the cells. Daily requirement 50 to 200μg.

 

Zinc Stores insulin and is responsible for carbohydrate metabolism and immune defence. Daily requirement 12 to 15mg.