Ions in Human Health (Essay Sample)

Program: Bachelors of Nursing in Science Unit: CHM-101 Name: Instructor’s name: Date: IONS IN HUMAN HEALTH Ions are vital to the human body's healthy operation since they are involved in many physiological processes. This research aims to investigate four distinct categories of ions that are important for human health: polyatomic ions, transition metal cations, anions from groups 15, 16, or 17, and Group I or II ions. These ions come from food and are necessary for a number of body processes. 1. Sodium (Na+): Description: Sodium is a single-positive charged Group I cation denoted by the chemical formula Na+. It is present as an ion in a variety of chemicals and is extremely reactive. Soft, silvery-white, and widely distributed in the Earth's crust is sodium(Kronzucker et al., 2019). Principal Dietary Sources: Processed foods, canned soups, restaurant-prepared meals, and table salt (sodium chloride, NaCl) are common dietary sources of sodium. Role in Physiology: Sodium is necessary for sending nerve impulses, controlling blood pressure, and preserving fluid balance. It is a crucial ion for the sodium-potassium pumps that regulate the movement of substances within cells. Daily Requirements: Although 2,300 milligrams of salt is the recommended daily intake for adults, most people consume more than this amount, which can lead to health issues. Diseases Resulting from Deficiency: Sodium deficiency is rare and typically only occurs in cases of extreme dehydration or excessive fluid loss, leading to symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, and confusion. Global Distribution of Deficiency: Because sodium is included in so many diets, sodium deficiency is rare. Nonetheless, it might happen to people with particular medical conditions or in areas where access to a healthy diet is restricted. Recommendations for Overcoming Deficiency: The major piece of advice for overcoming sodium deficiency is to continue eating a balanced diet that contains a modest amount of sodium. Limiting the intake of processed foods and cooking with less salt can help avoid health problems associated with high sodium intake. 2. Iron (Fe2+/Fe3+): Description: Fe2+ (ferrous) and Fe3+ (ferric) are the two common oxidation states of iron, a transition metal cation. It is a highly magnetic, glossy, silver-gray metal that is a necessary part of both myoglobin and hemoglobin. Principal Dietary Sources: Red meat, chicken, fish, lentils, beans, tofu, fortified cereals, and dark leafy greens are good dietary sources of iron. Role in Physiology: Iron is an essential component of myoglobin in muscle cells and hemoglobin in red blood cells, which makes it essential for oxygen delivery. It contributes to enzymatic processes all over the body. Daily Requirements: Depending on factors such as age, sex, and stage of life, adults should aim to consume 8–18 mg of iron each day. It is noteworthy that diets high in vitamin C enhance the absorption of non-heme iron (found in plant-based sources). Diseases Resulting from Deficiency: Anemia, a condition marked by weakness, exhaustion, and decreased cognitive function, can result from an iron deficiency. Serious repercussions can arise from severe iron shortage, particularly for expectant mothers and small children(Pasricha et al., 2021). Global Distribution of Deficiency: Iron deficiency anemia is a common health problem that affects people worldwide, particularly women and children in poor and industrialized nations. Recommendations for Overcoming Deficiency: People with iron deficiency should eat a diet high in iron-rich foods and, in certain situations, take iron supplements under a doctor's supervision. In certain areas, food fortification initiatives have been successful in lowering iron deficiency. 3. Iodine (I−): Description: Described as an anion belonging to Group 17, iodine has the chemical symbol I−. In its elemental state, it is usually found as the diatomic molecule I2. At room temperature, iodine is a violet-black solid that is lustrous. Principal Dietary Sources: Common dietary sources of iodine include dairy products, fish, notably seaweed, and iodized table salt. Role in Physiology: Iodine is a necessary component of thyroid hormones, which assist in controlling the body's energy production and regulating metabolic processes. Thyroid dysfunction may result from an iodine deficiency. Daily Requirements: Although 150 micrograms of iodine is the recommended daily dose for adults, pregnant and nursing women may need more. Diseases Resulting from Deficiency: A deficiency in iodine can result in thyroid problems, including cretinism, a severe developmental disorder, and goiter, an enlarged thyroid gland. Children may also experience developmental delay and intellectual impairments as a result (Ahad & Ganie, 2018). Global Distribution of Deficiency: Deficiencies in iodine have been a major public health concern in many parts of the world, particularly in places distant from the ocean where seafood is less readily available. Recommendations for Overcoming Deficiency: In many areas, iodized salt initiatives have been effective in treating iodine deficit. Public health campaigns that track iodine status and promote the intake of iodine-rich foods can also aid in the fight against this deficit. 4. Phosphate (PO43−): Description: The chemical formula for phosphate is PO43−. It is a polyatomic ion. It is made up of four oxygen atoms bound to a central phosphorus atom. The building blocks of DNA, RNA, and ATP (adenosine triphosphate) are phosphate ions. Prin...