Preksha Dhyana Human Body Part 2

SR No.: 006550
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Jethalal S Zaveri
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati
Publication Year: 1993
Total Pages: 118
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Yoga
File Size: 6 MB

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functioning of the body. Some, such as calcium and phosphorus of bones, are present in sizable quantities; others are needed only in minute amounts. These are often referred to as trace elements or micronutrients. Minerals are lost daily in the urine, feces and sweat and must be replaced by the intake of foods. As mineral salts help to maintain acid-base balance and participate in various body-functions such as conductivity, coagulation of blood etc., their deficiency can produce disease or poisoning. Some important minerals and their functions are given here.
Calcium is the most abundant element. 99% of it is found in the bones and teeth. Yet the other one percent is vital for cell activities. It is involved in muscle-and-heartcontraction, in nerve-conduction and blood-clotting. A daily intake of 1 gram is needed to maintain an optimum concentration in the body fluids. But children and nourishing mothers have increased requirements. Bones and teeth will be demineralized, if the diet is deficient in calcium. Milk and milk-products are the best food-sources, but it is also supplied by leafy vegetables.
Phosphorus is also an abundant and vital element. About 80 percent is combined with calcium in the bones and teeth. It is also an essential constituent of the nucleic acids, ATP, etc. Daily requirement is about 1.5 gram, but incrased amounts (equal to that of calcium) are needed by growing children and nursing mothers. Foods that are rich in calcium (e.g. milk) also provide good supplies of phosphorus. It is also found in beans and nuts.
Sodium is found mainly in the extra-cellular fluid with only traces inside the cells. It plays a major role in the acid base balance and osmotic pressure. Table salt (sodium chloride) is commonly and routinely added to many foods, but the average diet provides ample amounts of sodium even without salting. Person with heart-disease must severely restrict their salt intake as it is believed to be contributing to the development of hypertension (high blood-pressure).
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