Page 245 - The Miracle in the Cell Membrane

pounds necessary for the Selenium
functioning of many coen- Selenium is
zyme systems and metabo- an antioxidant
lisms. Phosphates are also that plays a role in
linked to many important such bodily functions as the
reactions, especially ATP, synthesis of DNA and pro-
ADP and phosphocreatine teins, immune reactions,
processes. cell membrane integrity,
pancreas functions, produc-
Potassium tion of retinal blood vessels,
This mineral is impor- retinal light absorption,
tant for a healthy nervous production functions and
system and a regular heart- tissue elasticity.
beat. It assists in the preven-
tion of heart attacks, estab- Sodium
lishes regular heart contrac- This element is impor-
tions, and together with tant with regard to nerve
sodium, controls the water stimuli transmission, the
level in the body. It is maintenance of cell fluid
important for chemical levels, the transport of
reactions within the cell, nutrients to the cell mem-
and assists in the regulation branes, and smooth muscle
of blood pressure and in the contractions. Sodium and
transmission of electro- water deficiencies are the
chemical stimuli. Potassium most widespread and seri-
absorption declines with ous deficiencies worldwide.
age, leading to circulatory In the event of long-term
disorders and weakness. water loss from the body,
sodium—one of the main