A tree grows from cracks in the bedrock. Bedrock is the hard, solid rock beneath surface materials such as soil and gravel. Bedrock is the hard, solid rock beneath surface materials such as soil and gravel. Bedrock also underlies sand and other sediments on the ocean floor.

igneous rocks

quartz

Minerals include calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, sulfur, chloride, iron, iodine, fluoride, zinc, copper, selenium, chromium and cobalt (which is part of the vitamin B12/cobalamine).

Among the metals that are currently known to be essential for normal biological functions in humans are sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca) that belong to main group of elements, and vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn).

Vitamins and minerals are often called micronutrients because your body needs only tiny amounts of them.

There are 7 essential plant nutrient elements defined as micronutrients [boron (B), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), chlorine (Cl)]. They constitute in total less than 1% of the dry weight of most plants.

Five micronutrients—vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc—play roles in maintaining immune function, and supplements containing them are often sold as immune boosters in doses that greatly exceed the recommended daily allowance.

7 Nutrient Deficiencies That Are Incredibly Common

1. Iron deficiency. Iron is an essential mineral.
2. Iodine deficiency.
3. Vitamin D deficiency.
4. Vitamin B12 deficiency.
5. Calcium deficiency.
6. Vitamin A deficiency.
7. Magnesium deficiency.

Common symptoms include:

• Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
• Convulsions.
• Fatigue.
• Muscle spasms or cramps.
• Muscle weakness.
• Numbness.

The best way to avoid nutritional deficiencies is by eating a well-balanced diet….Focus on the following foods to help boost vitamin and mineral intake:

1. Green, leafy vegetables.
2. Orange and red produce.
3. Nuts and seeds.
4. Beans.
5. Whole grains.
6. Fatty fish.
7. Egg yolks.
8. Low-fat dairy products.

Nutrient deficiencies

A nutritional deficiency occurs when the body doesn’t absorb or get from food the necessary amount of a nutrient. Deficiencies can lead to a variety of health problems. These can include digestion problems, skin disorders, stunted or defective bone growth, and even dementia.

What Causes Poor Nutrition? Poor eating habits include under- or over-eating, not having enough of the healthy foods we need each day, or consuming too many types of food and drink, which are low in fibre or high in fat, salt and/or sugar.

Illness. Disease-related inflammation and illnesses can contribute to declines in appetite and changes in how the body processes nutrients. Impairment in ability to eat. Difficulty chewing or swallowing, poor dental health, or limited ability in handling tableware can contribute to malnutrition.

What is an unhealthy diet? Diets high in sugars, saturated and trans- fats, low fibre foods and high-sugar drinks contribute to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and other health problems. High intake of fast food and processed foods increases these health risks.