Minerals are divided into two groups based upon the dietary level needed. Macro minerals required in large amounts and are expressed as a percentage of the diet:
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Sodium
- Magnesium
Calcium
Function
Skeletal development and maintenance, blood clotting, muscle contraction, temperature regulation, enzyme activity regulation, glandular secretion and cell membrane integrity.
Phosphorus
Function
Accounts for 14-17% of the bone and is also important for maintaining skeletal soundness. It has roles in skeletal development and maintenance, buffering, energy metabolism, and synthesis of phospholipids, nucleic acids and phosphoproteins required for cellular functions.
Sodium
Function
Acid-base balance and osmotic regulation of body fluids, muscle contraction and nerve impulse transmission.
Magnesium
Function
Magnesium is involved in energy generation and transfer, DNA and protein manufacture, it is also an electrolyte.
