Nutrients dominate much of the discussion about supplements and that causes many people to become confused about what is considered a vitamin and what is a mineral.  In truth, there is so much that goes into understanding what each vitamin and mineral do for and to your body that it can be hard to keep track of them all. 

Minerals Basics

Minerals are inorganic elements that the body does not make by itself. Instead, the body obtains minerals from the foods that are eaten or through supplements. The two types of minerals are Trace minerals and Macro minerals.

Some minerals are taken specifically because they may be great contributors to beautiful skin, hair and nails. Some people call these the Beauty Minerals.

How Minerals Affect Beauty

• Sulphur is known as the “beauty” mineral. It keeps hair, nails and skin strong. It plays a role in the production of collagen, which helps maintain the skin’s elasticity. Sulphur also helps with such conditions as eczema, psoriasis and acne. Sulphur can be found in lean meats, fish, eggs, milk, legumes, cabbage, brussel sprouts and turnips.
• Iodine, which is found mainly in the thyroid gland, regulates the release of energy in the body. It also regulates the metabolism so without iodine a person would gain a great deal of weight. Iodine also contributes to healthy hair, skin, nails and teeth. Good sources of iodine are leafy vegetables, fish, shellfish, and onions
• Copper protects the cardiovascular and nervous systems, as well as bones. It helps keep arteries from hardening and is needed for healthy hair and skin. The body also needs copper to produce antioxidants. Half of the body’s copper supply is in the bones and muscles. Copper can be found in beef liver, black-eyed peas, shellfish and cocoa.

Learn more about beauty minerals.