Fulvic Trace Elements and Human Health

Trace element studies

Essential Elements and Trace Elements in Human Health

Chemical elements play a fundamental role in human life. Of the 115 known elements, only 19 are essential to the human diet, and of these, a small group makes up the majority of our body composition and vital functions. Below, we will explore the importance of these elements, the trace elements, and their impact on health.

Essential Elements for Life

Of the approximately 115 known elements, only 19 are essential to the human diet and are mostly restricted to the first few rows of the periodic table. These include elements such as carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen, which make up 96% of the human body. Others, such as calcium, iron, magnesium and zinc, are vital in smaller amounts for various metabolic and structural functions.【1】【2】

Why Are Some Toxic Elements Essential?

Some elements considered toxic, such as arsenic, mercury or cadmium, can be beneficial in low concentrations by acting as catalysts in certain biochemical reactions. However, high levels can result in severe toxicity【3】【4】.

Trace elements: small amounts, big impact

Trace minerals are inorganic substances that the body needs in amounts less than 100 mg per day. These elements, such as iron, iodine, selenium and copper, play a crucial role in:

Cellular functions: They act as cofactors in enzymes, stabilizing their structure and facilitating essential biochemical reactions.
Metabolism: They intervene in oxygen transport, hormonal regulation and energy production.
Immune defense: They help strengthen the immune system and fight diseases【5】【6】.

Imbalances and Their Impact

Excessive levels or deficiencies of trace elements can disrupt biological processes and are associated with serious diseases such as cancer and metabolic disorders. For example, zinc deficiency impairs immunity, while excess copper can trigger submucosal fibrosis【7】【8】.

Nutritional Aspects and Lifestyle Changes

Modernization and urbanization have disrupted traditional diets, promoting processed and nutrient-poor foods. This has led to deficiencies in essential trace elements, affecting both systemic and oral health. Problems such as malnutrition, poor growth, and increased susceptibility to disease are directly related to this trend【9】.

Impact on Oral Health

Trace elements influence craniofacial development, maintenance of dental tissues, and the progression of oral diseases. For example, antioxidants with selenium can treat oral disorders, while iron and zinc deficiencies manifest in oral problems【10】.

Clinical Applications of Trace Elements

Trace elements are not only essential for health, but also have diagnostic and therapeutic applications:

Early diagnosis: Imbalances of certain elements can act as markers in the early diagnosis of diseases, including various types of cancer.
Targeted therapy: Elements such as selenium and zinc are used in treatments to strengthen the immune system and combat degenerative diseases【11】【12】.

The Relationship Between Heavy Metals and Health

Heavy metals, although potentially toxic, can also be used in minimal concentrations for the treatment of diseases. For example, arsenic in controlled doses has therapeutic applications in certain types of leukemia. However, its accumulation or imbalance can have serious adverse effects【13】.

Conclusion

The importance of trace elements and essential elements lies in their ability to sustain vital functions of the human body. Maintaining a proper balance is crucial, as both deficiencies and excesses can have profound effects on health. As science continues to explore their impact, adopting a balanced diet that ensures adequate intake of these elements is essential to preserving health and preventing disease.