It’s the
age old question, but one we’re still confused about.
A lot of
people equate sweat to how hard they’re working. However it’s not an accurate
representation of the effort you’re putting into an exercise session.
Sweat is
the body’s super-effective cooling system, and we naturally perspire a litre of
water on a rest day. And, besides, some people’s genetics mean they sweat more
easily than others.
It just
means how hot your body is. So if you’re jumping on the spot in a hot room,
you’re going to start sweating. If you’re working harder in a cold room, you
might not sweat but you’ve still put in more effort.
When it
comes to nutritional benefits, vitamins have long stood front and centre. But
what about those equally important essential mineral workhorses that labour
undercover with no recognition?
I’m
talking trace minerals, compounds needed – albeit in microscopic quantities –
to keep your body running as nature intended. Unlike vitamins, there are no
non-essential minerals, meaning you have to get them all via your diet.
Although
trace minerals are, typically, harder to be lacking in, certain current food
trends – swerving dairy, for example – could put you at risk of deficiency,
symptoms of which include chronic fatigue, cognitive decline and depression.
Here are
some of the key essential minerals to get yourself acquainted with:
1. Iodine: The Thyroid Manager
Not only is iodine crucial for neurological development, it also plays a major
role in healthy thyroid function. Without it, your active thyroid hormone,
triiodothyronine, wouldn’t exist.
Which food is it in?
White fish and dairy products.
2. Copper: The Fat Burner
Research has shown that copper is essential for metabolising fat. It’s also
proven as a brain booster; deficiency has been linked to Alzheimer’s.
Which food is it in?
Sunflower seeds, cashew nuts, green olives and shellfish.
3. Selenium: The Immune System Helper
Selenium boosts immune system function and is a key player in egg formation and
fertilisation.
Which food is it in?
Brazil nuts and eggs.
4. Molybdenum: The Liver Lover
Molybdenum supports an enzyme called sulphate oxidase, which is integral to the
conversion of toxic sulphites into more inert sulphates, which the body can
then excrete in the urine.
Which food is it in?
Foods that grow above ground are higher in molybdenum than those that grow
below. Think cauliflower, beans and oats.
5. Manganese: The Bone Booster
This one is essential for bone growth and can help to reverse bone mineral
density loss when taken as part of a calcium, copper and zinc supplement.
Manganese activates glycosyl transferases, an enzyme need for the formation of
proteoglycan molecules present in cartilage.
Which food is it in?
Tea is probably the simplest source for most people. Not a tea person? Try
porridge with cinnamon or cloves instead.
