Minerals are found in many different foods, with some foods containing more of a specific mineral than other foods. For example, whole-wheat breads contain magnesium, dairy products are rich in calcium and meats provide phosphorus and sulfur.  In addition, some foods may be fortified with certain minerals. A well-balanced diet that incorporates foods from each of the five basic food groups (e.g., fruits, vegetables, grains, milk, meat/beans) is the best way to ensure an adequate supply of most of the major minerals and trace elements.

Many minerals also are available in supplement form. In some cases, these may be beneficial for people. For example, iron supplements can boost the supply of iron in a woman who loses excessive blood during her menstrual period. Pregnant and breastfeeding women also may benefit from taking certain supplements.

Men who are extremely sexually active may use a zinc supplement to replace the zinc they lose during ejaculation. Studies have also shown that men who take a selenium supplement may reduce their risk of prostate cancer by two-thirds.

However, mineral supplements should not be used without a physician’s approval. Certain mineral supplements may interact poorly with certain medications. For example, calcium may fasten antibiotics such as tetracycline into compounds the body cannot break apart. This prevents the body from absorbing the medication, nullifying its positive effects. Drinking milk or consuming dairy products also can have this type of negative impact on tetracycline.