Which of the following statements about minerals is FALSE? a.It is possible to consume toxic amounts. b.They can be destroyed by cooking. c.They make up 4% of our body weight. d.They cannot be broken down by digestion. e.They often work with enzymes as cofactors.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b. They can be destroyed by cooking.
Minerals are inorganic nutrients that are essential for various physiological functions in the human body. They differ from vitamins because they are not organic and cannot be broken down by the body. Let’s break down why the other options are true:
- a. It is possible to consume toxic amounts.
Certain minerals can be toxic when consumed in excessive amounts. For example, too much iron can lead to iron poisoning, and excess sodium can increase the risk of high blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to maintain a balance in mineral intake. - c. They make up 4% of our body weight.
Minerals constitute a small portion of our body weight, approximately 4%. They are found in bones, teeth, blood, and various tissues, where they play roles in structure and function. For instance, calcium and phosphorus are vital components of bone structure. - d. They cannot be broken down by digestion.
Minerals are inorganic substances, meaning they do not undergo digestion in the same way that proteins, fats, or carbohydrates do. Once consumed, they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream and utilized by the body in their elemental form. - e. They often work with enzymes as cofactors.
Many minerals act as cofactors for enzymes, which means they help activate enzymes or enhance their activity. For example, zinc is a cofactor for numerous enzymes involved in metabolism, and magnesium is essential for the activity of enzymes in the body.
However, b. They can be destroyed by cooking is false. Unlike vitamins, minerals are stable during cooking and are not destroyed by heat. They may leach into cooking water, but they remain intact chemically. This is why it’s important to preserve cooking liquids, like broth, when preparing foods rich in minerals.
In summary, minerals are essential to the body’s functions, are not destroyed by heat, and must be consumed in appropriate amounts to prevent toxicity.