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Roles That Solid Ions Play in the Body

An ion is an electrical charge, a part of an atom, that delivers messages within its host. In regards to the human body, ions do many jobs that are necessary. Some of these include helping cells obtain water, creating strong blood as well as building bones and muscles. Solid forms of these ions can be found throughout the food chain, giving the body the nutrients it needs to function properly.

  1. Calcium

    • Calcium works in the body as a bone builder. It helps bones develop in children and can prevent osteoporosis in mature adults. The most common solid form of calcium is dairy products such as yogurt and cheese. But it can also be found in soybeans, cooked spinach, canned salmon with the bones and fortified grains such as cereal and waffles.

    Phosphate

    • Phosphates are a major component of bone structure as well as cell membranes. Phosphates ions help with energy production and storage in the human body. It is found in most food sources because it is a major component of every living organism. It is found in meats such as beef and turkey, dairy products including milk and yogurt, and in nuts and breads.

    Sodium

    • Sodium works with cell membranes, assisting in the osmosis process that allows cells to absorb water. While the sodium ion is a part of salt, it only makes up 40 percent of salt, it is found in various processed foods as a preservative. For instance, an apple has 1 to 2 milligrams of sodium, while a fast-food apple pie has 400 milligrams of sodium. The daily minimum requirement of sodium is 1,500 milligrams.

    Iron

    • Iron is a needed component of the blood. If there is too little iron in the blood, a person can be anemic, with symptoms of weakness. Eating meat is the quickest way to boost iron in solid form, but it can also be found in vegetables such as broccoli, sweet potatoes and spinach. Whole grain breads and dried beans are another good source of iron.

    Potassium

    • Potassium is involved with the functioning of nerves and muscles while regulating the fluid balance in the body. Potassium also helps the proteins we eat build muscles, bone and cells. Bananas are the most common form of solid ions, but it can also be found in dried apricots, cantaloupe, beets and orange juice. Another good source of potassium is potatoes with the skins.

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