Macrominerals are inorganic nutrients that the human body requires in large quantities because they carry out several critical bodily functions. The most important macrominerals include potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, chloride, sulfur and phosphorus. The recommended daily allowance of each of these in the human diet varies widely, from 320 mg each day for magnesium to 4,700 mg each day for potassium. If a person has a balanced diet, he typically consumes the macrominerals required each day.
Most people know that calcium is important for bone strength and density as well as for dental health, but it also plays a role in the dilation and contraction of the blood vessels, the communication of nerve signals, the movement of muscles and hormonal secretion.
Phosphorus is also important for strong teeth and bones, but it also helps the renal system filter toxins out of the blood. In addition, phosphorus is a basic building block of genetic material and helps the body store energy until it is needed.
Potassium has the important job of regulating the electrical currents that manage the heartbeat while helping with the building of proteins and muscles. Potassium helps the body break carbohydrates down so that the body converts them into energy sources. If potassium levels are off, heart rhythm suffers as well.
