Introduction:

Minerals are inorganic nutrients, usually required in small amounts from less than 1 to 2500 mg per day, depending on the mineral. Human body needs a number of minerals for its functioning. Minerals act in very crucial life processes like iron being part of hemoglobin and iodine being part of thyroid hormone. For example, humans and other vertebrates need large amounts of calcium for construction and maintenance of bone and normal function of nerves and muscles. Phosphorus is essential for acid-base balance, bone and tooth formation. Red blood cells cannot function properly without iron in haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying pigment of red blood cells. Micronutrient deficiencies are a major public health problem in many developing countries.
In this course, we will study about iron, calcium, sodium, potassium, iodine, zinc and other minerals and manifestations of their deficiencies or toxicities.

Course Prerequisite:

Student must have the knowledge of Inorganic Chemistry in order to comprehend this course.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Identify the deficiency present based on the symptoms given.
2. Evaluate the need for various minerals in our diets.
3. Describe the interactions between certain minerals and other substances.
4. Explain the relationship between certain health conditions and mineral deficiencies.

Recommended Text Book:

1. Mukhtar Ahmed Hashmi's essential biochemistry 
2. Medical Biochemistry Vol II by Dr.Mushtaq Ahmed

Exam Evaluation:

At the end of this course, Assesment test comprising THEORY (MCQs and SEQS) and VIVA shall be held which would add up to the Annual internal assessment of the students.