Mineral Deficiencies
These days, with our mineral and nutrient depleted soils, nutritional deficiencies (especially mineral deficiencies) are much more common than people realize, and their effects produce significant ill health and disease. By recognizing some of the symptoms of these nutritional deficiencies they can be remedied before full-blown disease sets in.
Perhaps the five most common mineral deficiencies are sodium, calcium, magnesium, silicon, and iodine. At this point, I want to clarify that there is a big difference between organic and inorganic minerals. Sodium is a perfect example. Organic sodium, from fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, celery, carrots and figs, is easily assimilated and utilized in the body, because it has already been organized by the plant or animal source; preparing it for easy absorption and use in the human body. Inorganic sodium, from salt (table salt or sea salt) is not readily assimilated by the body, and actually stresses the human body.
Organic sodium is an important mineral especially for digestive and joint health. Deficiency can lead to poor digestion and elimination, as among other functions, sodium forms the digestive enzyme amylase. Sodium is also one of the primary alkaline minerals that neutralize an acidic condition, along with calcium and magnesium. Sodium deficiency can also cause joint stiffness, “cracking of joints”, and arthritis.
The most commonly known calcium deficiency is osteoporosis. A less commonly known symptom of calcium deficiency is poor wound healing. Calcium is known as the “knitter” in the body, strengthening and healing tissues. Blood-clotting problems also indicate a calcium deficiency.
Whole books have been written on magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is vital for the proper functioning of the nervous system. It relaxes nerves and smooth muscle. It’s also most important to the digestive system, relieving constipation and autointoxication. Thus, Phillips Milk of Magnesia. A magnesium deficiency will also cause calcium to be deposited into the soft tissues; and on the mental side, can lead to temper and an over-excited state.
Silicon is vital for the health of the skin, hair, teeth, nails and ligaments; in other words, the structural system. It gives a sparkle to the eyes, glossy hair, keen hearing, and agility to the body. A silicon deficiency can lead to coordination problems, impotence and sexual disability, parched lips, and a feeling of approaching death. Oh, and also hair falling out.
Iodine is needed mostly in the nervous system. It’s a gland and brain mineral, normalizing metabolism and gland and cell function, as well as getting rid of poisons and counteracting them. Indications of iodine deficiency are mental depression, claustrophobia/fears, and flabby arms.
