Metals are naturally occurring inorganic substances and essential components of the environment. They play imperative roles in the history of human civilization and are critical to the functioning of living organisms.

Metals are required as essential nutrients for a wide range of physiological processes, including metabolism, enzyme activity, and bone formation.

Types of Basic Metals

Basic metals are those metals that are the most abundant and are easily available in the earth’s crust. There are six types of basic metals, including iron, copper, magnesium, zinc, calcium, and chromium.

Iron

Iron is a crucial nutrient for human physiology, and it is required for the production of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in the blood.

Iron also plays an essential role in brain development and function, muscle metabolism, and immune system function.

Copper

Copper is an essential nutrient required for the formation of connective tissue, bone, and the production of red blood cells. Copper also plays a role in the functioning of the nervous and immune systems and is involved in the production of energy.

Magnesium

Magnesium plays a crucial role in the regulation of numerous physiological functions, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, heart rhythm maintenance, and energy production.

It is essential for the structure of bones and teeth and has a vital role in maintaining normal levels of blood pressure and glucose.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient required for the production of proteins and DNA synthesis. It plays a critical role in the immune system, wound healing, and cell division.

Zinc is also essential for proper growth and development during pregnancy, infancy, and childhood.

Calcium

Calcium is a fundamental mineral required for the formation and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. It is also essential for the proper functioning of the heart, nerves, and muscles.

Calcium is involved in the process of blood clotting and the transmission of signals in the nervous system.

Chromium

Chromium is a trace metal that plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism and insulin regulation. It is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats and is essential for growth and development.

Impact of Basic Metals on Human Physiology

The impact of basic metals on human physiology is essential. Most basic metals are required as essential nutrients for numerous physiological functions, including metabolism, enzyme activity, and bone formation.

Several basic metals also play a vital role in the functioning of the immune system, nervous system, and heart.

Deficiency and Toxicity

Deficiency and toxicity of basic metals can cause severe health problems. For example, iron deficiency can lead to anemia, while excess iron can cause iron overload, including liver damage, heart problems, and diabetes.

Copper deficiency can lead to anemia, while excess copper can lead to liver damage. Magnesium deficiency can cause muscle cramps, fatigue, and abnormal heart rhythms, while excess magnesium can cause diarrhea. Zinc deficiency can lead to impaired growth and development, while excess zinc can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Calcium deficiency can cause weakened bones and increased risk of fractures, while excess calcium can lead to kidney stones. Chromium deficiency can lead to glucose intolerance, while excess chromium can cause DNA damage and cancer.

Conclusion

Basic metals are essential components of the environment that play critical roles in human physiology. They are required as essential nutrients for a wide range of physiological processes, including metabolism, enzyme activity, and bone formation.

Deficiency and toxicity of basic metals can cause severe health problems and diseases. A balanced diet that includes a wide variety of nutrient-rich foods is essential for meeting the body’s demand for basic metals.