Vega Sport Electrolyte Hydrator (Berry) - 3.7g Packet

Minerals

Calcium is an important mineral for the optimal functioning of many body systems. Calcium is a major mineral found in the bones and teeth. Deficiency of calcium causes bone and joint diseases such as osteomalacia, osteoporosis and osteo-arthritis. It also leads to poor growth and poor bone density in children. Calcium also protects the body from heavy metal toxicity because if calcium is deficient lead is absorbed by the body and deposited in the teeth and bones.

Chromium is sometimes referred to as glucose tolerance factor (GTF) because of the vital role it plays in the metabolism of sugar for energy. It maintains stable blood sugar levels by regulating the workings of the hormone insulin. Insulin is released from the pancreas, in response to sugar intake. It allows the intake of glucose by the cells as a fuel source. Without insulin sugar stays in the blood, and cells become starved for energy. The standard North American diet is high in sugar and refined products, as well as being deficient in blood sugar stabilizing substances like fibre.

The body uses Copper in several systems. In the blood, it is a component of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying portion of the red blood cell. A deficiency of copper leads to anemia. It is important for wound healing and maintaining the integrity of the skin, bone, cartilage and tendons. Copper works with zinc and vitamin C to form elastin and collagen, which provide structural stability to most tissues and play a special role in maintaining elasticity in areas like the lungs and skin.

Magnesium is an important catalyst for the body's chemical reactions, meaning that it increases the rate at which chemical reactions occur. Some of the most important chemical reactions that involve magnesium are in the Kreb's cycle, the cycle inside every cell that leads to energy production. Without magnesium the transmission of nerve and muscle impulses is compromised. This can lead to nervous disorders, depression and muscle weakness or twitches. Magnesium is a useful supplement for PMS symptoms that involves irritability and mood swings. Magnesium also decreases menstrual pain by relaxing the uterine muscles. In pregnancy magnesium acts as a uterine relaxant and can prevent premature labour. Studies show supplemental magnesium in pregnancy also decreases the risk of birth defects such as cerebral palsy. Magnesium is an important mineral for cardiovascular health. It regulates the heartbeat, prevents the calcification of arteries and relaxes arterial vessels to prevent hypertension. Magnesium has also been researched for its ability to reduce cholesterol, protect against osteoporosis and support optimal cell growth.

Phosphorus is used for more biological processes than any other mineral. It is required for the production of ATP, the molecule which stores and transports energy in the cell. In the blood stream phosphorus is used as a buffer to maintain the body's acid/base balance. Phosphorus makes up the backbone of DNA and RNA, our genetic material. Phosphorus is used to make bone and teeth and regulate muscle contraction and blood clotting. It performs these functions with other minerals including calcium and magnesium. It is important for phosphorus to be in proper balance with the minerals calcium and magnesium. The optimal ratio is 2 calcium:1 magnesium: 1 phosphorus. With all of these important functions it is hard to believe that phosphorus rarely requires supplementation.

vitamin C is the most widely used supplement. Humans cannot manufacture their own vitamin C; therefore it must be taken in through the diet. Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that is used all over the body. It speeds tissue growth and repair, supports hormone production, increases immune system functioning, protects the body from toxins and support healthy cell growth. It also regulates cholesterol, blood pressure and blood clotting.