The following list of minerals show what they do for your body, especially in aiding menstrual discomforts, and in which foods they can be found.
The food sources for the minerals are healthy, whole foods that actually support you in maintaining your ideal weight, as well as reducing food cravings and overeating.
Minerals: Calcium Helps reduce menstrual cramps.
Essential for muscle activity.
May help prevent osteoporosis when combined with weight-bearing exercise.
Found in: Raw, dark, leafy vegetables, salmon, shrimp, oats, navy beans, Brussels sprouts and broccoli.
Phosphorus Aids in carbohydrate metabolism and in maintaining healthy nerves.
Found in: Fish, whole grains, corn, and legumes.
Magnesium A natural tranquilizer.
Prevents buildup of cholesterol and sugar cravings.
Alleviates menstrual cramps.
Found in: Green leafy vegetables, figs, apples, lemons, peaches, brown rice, salmon, shrimp, lima and red beans, whole grain and rye breads.
Potassium Stimulates endocrine hormone production.
Prevents over-acidity.
Helps kidneys detoxify blood Found in: All vegetables, oranges, bananas and potatoes with peels.
Choline Aids in production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach needed for protein digestion and mineral assimilation.
Helps liver detoxify body.
Found in: Tomatoes, cabbage, turnips, celery, cucumbers, asparagus, oats, pineapple and salt-water fish.
Iron Increases resistance to stress and disease.
Found in: Apricots, peaches, bananas, prunes, whole grain cereals, beet tops, spinach, dry beans, lentils, raisins and meats.
Zinc Involved in carbohydrate and energy metabolism.
Helps control PMS acne.
Involved in hormone activities.
May reduce cold symptoms.
Found in: Onions, oysters, herring, green leafy vegetables, chicken, rice, bran, apples, cabbage, berries.
Chromium Works with insulin to remove glucose from blood into cells.
Aids in cholesterol metabolism.
Found in: Whole grain breads and mushrooms.