Eli5: How does the human’s body processes a minuscule amount of metals to maintain health?

Question

That except iron in our blood, what are the functions of the other minerals/metals like Zinc, Selenium, …

In: 51

Answer 1

Those metals are components of our proteins and DNA, so when we replicate our cells to maintain and grow tissue we need some of those metals. Zinc is important for a lot of immune system enzymes. Metals may also be components of signaling chemicals like hormones – selenium, for example, is an important component of some thyroid hormones.

Cobalt forms part of vitamin B12

Vanadium may play a role in regulating blood sugar

Nickel is really important for fat metabolism.

We just need a very small amount and get plenty from our diets, but these metals are crucial.