The nutritional value of various elements for humans

The nutrients found in plants play critical roles for growth. They also provide nutritional value for the people and animals eating the plants. In some cases, nutrients found in crops are not known to have any useful function for plants, but are needed for our good health. In these cases, plants act as vehicles for us to ingest those nutrients.

There is no substitute for each nutrient, but many of them interact to ensure various biological functions, so their defined functions may overlap. The list of micronutrients presented here is not exhaustive, but includes some of the most important.

Nitrogen (N) is a component of DNA/RNA, amino acids and protein and is considered to be one of the basic building blocks of life.

Phosphorus (P) is found in many enzymes and nucleic acids. It combines with calcium to form our bones.

Potassium (K) is one of the main electrolytes and is involved in nerve function, muscle control and blood pressure.

Because it is needed for the production of collagen, sulphur (S) is an important element in the protection of the joints. It also plays a vital role in maintaining healthy hair and skin. Proteins also contain sulphur.

Magnesium (Mg) [link to page on Mg in same module] is involved in more than 300 of the body’s chemical reactions, helps ensure healthy bones and protects us against cardiovascular disease.

In addition to its key role as a major component of our skeletons, calcium (Ca) is needed for muscle contraction, blood vessel restriction and dilation, the secretion of hormones and enzymes and sending messages through the nervous system.

Boron (B) helps to maintain mineral and hormone levels. In this respect, it is considered vital for ensuring bone health.

Chlorinated compounds are indispensable to the functioning of the vital organs, but the straight form of chlorine (Cl) is toxic to humans. In low doses, it can be protective of our health (e.g. by purifying water).

Cobalt (Co) in the form of vitamin B12 is essential for humans. It supports important metabolic processes and is needed for the production of red blood cells.

Copper (Cu) plays a vital part in the development and performance of the human nervous and cardiovascular systems, as well as of the skin, bone, immune and reproductive systems and connective tissues. Research suggests that copper deficiency is one factor leading to an increased risk of developing coronary heart disease.

Chromium (Cr) is known to enhance the action of insulin. It also appears to be directly involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fat and proteins.

In its fluoride form, fluorine (Fl) is beneficial for dental health, but it becomes toxic at fairly low levels.

Iodine (I) is primarily needed for the healthy functioning of the thyroid.

Iron (Fe) is an integral part of many proteins and enzymes that maintain good health. In humans, iron is an essential component of proteins involved in oxygen transport. It is also essential for the regulation of cell growth and differentiation.

Manganese (Mn) is a cofactor for a number of enzymes and is required by the body in extremely small amounts.

Molybdenum (Mo) is a mineral that serves as a part of several key enzymes that help the body use carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

Selenium (Se) is an important constituent of anti-carcinogenic compounds that prevent cardiovascular diseases and improve the functioning of the human immune system. Selenium is not known to have any benefits for plants and is added to fertilizers solely as a strategy to correct human and animal deficiencies.

Silicon (Si) is believed to support the development of bones and connective tissues.

Zinc (Zn) is required for the catalytic activity of approximately 100 enzymes. It also plays a role in immune function, protein synthesis, healing of wounds, DNA synthesis and cell division. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence and is required for the senses of taste and smell.