Sulfate Research Paper

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Just as the body needs vitamins, the body also needs many minerals as well. These minerals are referred to as essential minerals, which are divided up into two major groups; macrominerals and trace minerals or microminerals. Both groups are equally important, but trace minerals are needed in smaller amounts than major minerals. However, the amounts needed in the body are not an indication of their importance; as is the case with the macromineral sulfate and the micromineral copper. Sulfate is a nonmetallic, secondary macromineral that is mainly derived through dietary proteins, such as meats, fish, poultry, eggs, milk, legumes and nuts. It is found in four specific amino acids: taurine, which aids in the production of bile acids for digestion; methionine, an essential amino acid; and the nonessential cystine and cysteine amino acids, which are made from the methionine amino acid. Sulfate is also present in the B…show more content…
Although copper deficiencies are rare, it often result in hematological and neurological disorders; has been implicated in adult-onset progressive myeloneuropathy and in the development of severe blood disorders including myelodysplastic syndrome. (3) Additionally, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, and chronic conditions involving bone, connective tissue, heart, and blood vessels have also been linked to copper deficiencies. (4) In regards to toxicity, the primary organ of copper-induced toxicity is the liver. Other organs including bone and the central nervous and immune systems can also be affected. Excess copper also induces toxicity indirectly by interacting with other nutrients. For example, excess copper intake produces anemia by interfering with iron transport and metabolism. To maintain good health and avoid toxicity, the recommended intake of copper for healthy adult men and women is 900 micrograms/day (0.9 mg/day).

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