The affect Transition Metals have on the human body
The transition elements make up Groups 3 through 12 of the periodic table. These elements, all of which are metals, include iron, cobalt, copper, zinc, chromium, manganese, molybdenum, gold, silver, mercury, nickel, platinum, titanium, vanadium, zirconium, palladium, and tungsten. There are more elements that are considered to be transition metals. Trace elements are elements found in small amounts within the human body and are vital for maintaining health. Also referred to as micro-minerals, trace elements are part of enzymes, hormones and cells in the body. A person can experience nutritional deficiency if there is an insufficient intake of trace minerals.
Iron- Iron makes up 0.006% of the weight in the human body. It is a key element in the metabolism of almost all living organisms. One of it's most important function is to transport oxygen from the lungs into a different part of the body. Iron is also also apart of many enzymes and is essential for growth, healing, immune functions, and DNA synthesis.
Cobalt- Cobalt takes up 0.0000021% of the weight in the human body. Vitamin B12 contains cobalt which is important in the formation of proteins and DNA regulation.
Copper- Copper makes up 0.0001% of the weight in the human body. Without the element copper, iron is unable to function properly. Due to copper's antioxidant action, cells are prevented from being damaged. As a component in many enzymes, copper helps in the production of energy from carbohydrates, protein, and fat. It is also needed for the formation of bone, connective tissue, and red blood cells.
Zinc- Zinc takes up 0.0032% of the weight in a human body. Zinc plays a role in the formation of enzymes, improves immune function, ells clot blood, maintains sense of taste and smell, keeps skin healthy, and enables growth and development.
Chromium- Chromium takes up 0.0000024% of the weight in the human body. It helps regulate sugar levels by interacting with insulin. Insulin is a hormone that maintains a person's blood sugar levels.Chromium is also needed for metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
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Manganese- Manganese makes up 0.000017% of the weight in the human body. It is necessary for certain enzymes particularly those that help protect the mitochondria from hazardous oxidants. The mitochondria are organelles that keep the cell full of energy; act as the power house of the cell.
Molybdenum- Molybdenum makes up 0.000013% of the weight in the human body. It is essential for all life forms. For humans, molybdenum is used in transforming sulfur into a usable form. It also helps activate some enzymes and enables normal cell function.