Let us be clear about something; if you eat the right foods, you will likely not need to supplement with minerals. However, it is noted that a good portion of our topsoil is devoid of the minerals that foods typically soak up, and this has been well-documented and known since the mid-1930s. Unfortunately, that means the vast majority of the people who read this require something a little extra because their food source is clearly lacking. Understanding your food source and where and how it was grown makes all the difference regarding this topic.

Several different diseases have been linked to deficiencies in certain minerals. And as stated before, factors such as age and digestive issues can impact your body’s ability to absorb the nutrients in your food. This could result in a deficiency. Today, mineral deficiency is a big issue.

For example, an estimated 80 percent of Americans are deficient in magnesium alone (Mercola, 2012). It is also known that magnesium deficiency tends to occur with the same conditions that also provoke deficiencies in sodium and potassium (Medical Dictionary, 2016). This is probably why Dr. Hyman suggests that most Americans lack one or more essential vitamins or minerals (Hyman, 2006). The result is nothing good.

For example, a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that selenium deficiency was linked to an increased risk of several thyroid diseases, including autoimmune thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, and an enlarged thyroid (Wu et al., 2015). Study after study suggests similar negatives regarding other deficiencies.

This topic could be another book on its own. The point is that minerals are an essential part of the overall health picture. However, there is a downside because it is not always as easy as going to the store to pick up a bottle.

Dr. Julian Whitaker says that “Elemental minerals, such as those found in soil, are not readily absorbed, so manufacturers bind them to amino acids or other substances that our bodies can take in. These are known as “chelated” minerals and have names like magnesium succinate, calcium citrate, etc. (Whitaker, 2014)” He goes on to say that “because of individual differences in the ability to absorb a nutrient, mineral supplements that contain a variety of sources are probably the best supplements to take.”

This can be confusing and complicated for those just starting on the path to better health. Since my writing is intended to simplify the topic, I will suggest the following: the easiest way to ensure you get what you require is to seek a quality multivitamin/mineral supplement from a reputable company with a proven track record. This might require a visit to a health food store. Regardless, when choosing this type of product, it is best to find one tailored to your age, gender, and other characteristics (e.g., pregnancy).

If you want some options regarding brands, I recommend you visit “http://www.anh-usa.org” and, in the search field, type “Which Supplement Companies Are Recommended by Experts?” Here, you will find a list of reputable brands to choose from. I would, however, avoid the big-box stores when it comes to this. Yes, they are cheaper; but they are usually inferior products. Now we need to focus on one mineral in particular. This will be one of the more important pieces of the puzzle for many. Let us talk about magnesium.

By the way, great food sources require an emphasis on fruits, lean protein, organ meats, and dairy products. Organic is best, but any will help. Furthermore, proper planning goes a long way.

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This article was originally published as a chapter in the book Natural Health Made Easy: The Briobiotic Protocol (2016)

This article was written from a Health Science perspective. Dr. Robertson is a health researcher and educator, not a physician. The information provided here is not medical advice, a professional diagnosis, opinion, treatment, or service to you or any other individual. The information provided is for educational and anecdotal purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or professional care. You should not use the information in place of a visit, call consultation, or the advice of your physician or other healthcare providers. Dr. Robertson is not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis, or additional information, services, or product you obtain or utilize. IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CALL 911 OR YOUR PHYSICIAN.