How many minerals are required by humans?

• A. 10 minerals
• B. 12 minerals
• C. 16 minerals
• D. 14 minerals

Answer: (D)

Minerals are essential nutrients needed in the diet to support structure, fluid balance, signaling, and metabolism. They’re typically split into macrominerals, used in larger amounts, and trace minerals, required in smaller amounts. The set commonly recognized as essential for humans consists of seven macrominerals and seven trace minerals, totaling fourteen. The macrominerals are calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, sodium, chloride, and magnesium. The trace minerals are iron, zinc, copper, manganese, iodine, selenium, and chromium. Each plays specific roles, such as calcium and phosphorus for bones, potassium and sodium for fluid balance and nerve function, magnesium for enzyme activity, iron for oxygen transport, iodine for thyroid hormones, and selenium for antioxidant enzymes. This fourteen-mineral framework helps explain why a varied diet supports multiple body systems, and why deficiencies can impact health across different functions.