Preserving Minerals — Phosphorus

scarletmedia (54)in #health • 6 years ago (edited)

Hello steemians... Here is the conclusive part of the series; MINERALS IN YOUR BODY where I discussed Iron, Iodine, Calcium and now PHOSPHORUS.

Phosphorus is another essential mineral, having much to do with the functions of all body cells. Phosphorus plays a large part in many important chemical reactions. It is associated with other important substances, such as enzymes, proteins, and carbohydrates. Phosphorus is necessary for all muscles. Without phosphorus in your system, you couldn’t even lift an eyebrow or move a finger!

Phosphorus also helps to maintain the normal acid-base balance of the body. It is essential in building sound healthy teeth and strong bones.

Image source: Pixabay

SOURCES OF PHOSPHORUS

• Phosphorus is found in all the foods mentioned earlier as sources of calcium which are milk, dairy products, potatoes, peas, beans, fish, etc.

• It is also present in whole-grain cereals, legumes, and nuts, and is particularly abundant in milk, where it is associated with calcium in just the right proportion for young children and nursing mothers.

• Phosphorus is needed especially for patients who are recovering from serious illnesses and surgical operationally.

PRESERVING YOUR MINERALS

When preparing food, be sure that valuable minerals are not lost through carelessness. Too often, these important nutrients are thrown away with the water in which foods were cooked. Minerals and also vitamins may be lost by too vigorous peeling and overcooking.

Image source: Pixabay

HINTS FOR THE COOK

• Do not cook vegetables any more than absolutely necessary.

• Use as little water as possible for the actual cooking. This will help to save those minerals so often thrown away.

• Water from vegetables should be used for making soups, curries, gravies, or for flavouring other foods. These important minerals are necessary to good health.

• Finally, don’t be careless in the way you prepare foods. Save the minerals and the family will enjoy better health. What is more, they will probably have fewer medical and dental bills to pay!