Trace elements : Benefits for Optimal Health : Your online pharmacy selection

What are trace elements?
Trace elements are essential minerals, present in very small quantities in the body, but essential to its proper functioning. They are involved in numerous biochemical reactions, supporting metabolism, immunity, skin, digestion and general vitality.

Since our bodies cannot produce them, trace elements must be supplied through the diet or in the form of supplements. An imbalance (deficiency or excess) can lead to various metabolic and functional disorders.

What are the main trace elements and their benefits?
Each trace element plays a specific role in the body. Here are the most important ones:

Iron (Fe)
Essential for red blood cell formation and oxygen transport.
Helps combat fatigue and anemia.
Present in: red meat, green vegetables, legumes, dried fruit.
Zinc (Zn)
Promotes healing and strengthens the immune system.
Contributes to healthy skin, hair and nails.
Present in: oysters, pumpkin seeds, meat, eggs, nuts.
Magnesium (Mg)
Regulates stress, anxiety and nervous fatigue.
Contributes to healthy muscle and nerve function.
Present in: bananas, dark chocolate, almonds, wholegrain cereals.
Copper (Cu)
Plays a role in collagen formation and skin pigmentation.
Boosts immune defenses and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Present in: liver, seafood, nuts, whole grains.
Selenium (Se)
Powerful antioxidant, protects against cell aging and cardiovascular disease.
Involved in thyroid function.
Present in: Brazil nuts, fish, eggs, garlic.
Iodine (I)
Essential for thyroid hormone production.
Regulates metabolism and energy.
Present in: seaweed, fish, iodized salt, dairy products.
Silicon (Si)
Keeps skin, joints and bones supple.
Promotes collagen and elastin production.
Present in: mineral water, nettles, whole grains, green vegetables.
Manganese (Mn)
Contributes to bone and cartilage formation.
Plays a key role in detoxification and nervous balance.
Present in: nuts, pineapple, tea, legumes.

What are the health benefits of trace elements?
Trace elements act on several levels in the body:

• Boosting the immune system → Helping to fight infection and inflammation.
• Nervous balance and stress management → Magnesium, zinc and copper regulate mood and energy.
• Skin, hair and nail beauty → Silicon, zinc and sulfur stimulate cell regeneration.
• Metabolism and thyroid support → Iodine and selenium regulate energy and weight.
• Joint and bone protection → Silicon and manganese boost bone strength.

Cardiovascular health and protection against aging → Iron, zinc and selenium prevent chronic diseases.

Where to find trace elements naturally?
A varied, balanced diet is generally sufficient to cover trace element requirements. They can be found in :

• Seafood and fish → Rich in iodine, zinc and selenium.
• Fresh fruit and vegetables → Natural sources of manganese, copper and silicon.
• Dried fruits and oilseeds → High in magnesium, iron and zinc.
• Pulses and wholegrain cereals → Provide iron, copper and manganese.
• Dairy products and eggs → Contain calcium, zinc and selenium.

How can you tell if you're lacking in trace elements?
A trace element deficiency can manifest itself through various symptoms:

• Iron deficiency → Fatigue, pale complexion, shortness of breath.
• Magnesium deficiency → Stress, muscle cramps, insomnia.
• Zinc deficiency → Hair loss, dull skin, weakened immunity.
• Iodine deficiency → Fatigue, weight gain, thyroid disorders.
• Selenium deficiency → Premature aging, lowered immune defenses.

A blood test can help identify any deficiencies and adapt your diet or supplement intake.

When should I take trace element supplements?
Trace element supplements are useful in cases of :

• Chronic fatigue and stress
• Proven deficiencies (confirmed by a blood test)
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding (increased needs)
• Intense sporting activity (increased mineral losses)
• Convalescence or weakened immune system

They are available in capsule, ampoule, oral solution or tablet form, often in 1 to 3-month cures.

Are there any contraindications to the use of trace elements?
In excess, some trace elements can become toxic:

• Excess iron → Risk of cellular oxidation and liver overload.
• Too much zinc → May cause digestive disorders and impair immunity.
• Overconsumption of iodine → Can disrupt thyroid function.

So it's best to opt for a balanced diet and only take supplements when you really need them.

Trace elements are essential nutrients for the body to function properly. Whether it's boosting immunity, improving skin, boosting energy or protecting joints, they play a key role in overall balance. A varied diet rich in natural products remains the best way to ensure an optimal supply of essential trace elements.