Role of Minerals in Cell Processes

Elements such as copper, iron and molybdenum, along with many other minerals, are essential to cell processes within the human body. They may only be present in the diet in small or "trace" quantities, but without them the body would cease to function properly.

Copper

• Copper is involved in the metabolism of protein within the body. It is also essential to the absorption of iron and plays a direct role in the healing process known as angiogenesis (the growth of new blood vessels). Several enzymes (biochemical catalysts) that depend on copper are known to increase during wound healing.

Iron

• An atom of iron is at the heart of each molecule of hemoglobin, the compound that is responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to every cell in the body. Iron also builds resistance to stress and disease.

Molybdenum

• Molybdenum--a trace mineral found in peas, lentils and other leguminous vegetables--is a component of certain enzymes which control carbohydrate metabolism and the creation and repair of genetic material.