Emerging Trends in Nutraceutical Research: Role of Minerals

Minerals are vital nutrients required for the growth and metabolism of the body. These are naturally occurring elements which are present in rocks, earth and various foods. They are required by the human body in different proportions as per their functions. Hence, they are classified as macro- and micronutrients. Minerals as nutraceutical also plays an important role as substrates for biochemical reactions; co-factors of enzymatic reactions; inhibitors of enzymatic reactions; compounds that improve nutrient absorption and/or stability; selective growth factors for beneficial gastrointestinal bacteria; fermentation substrates for beneficial oral, gastric or intestinal bacteria; selective inhibitors of deleterious intestinal bacteria; and absorbents and sequestrants that bind to and remove unfavourable compounds; minerals play a critical role in human health. In this chapter, the important role of minerals in various human body functions and their bioavailability has been elaborated. The effects of various factors on the absorption and function of different minerals have been discussed in detail. Further, the effect of food processing and cooking technique on the nutritional value of the minerals has also been discussed thoroughly.