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38 Mineral Rich Foods, Fruits & Vegetables to Include in Your Diet

Incorporating Mineral Rich foods into your diet can significantly enhance your overall health and well-being. These foods, abundant in essential minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc, play a crucial role in supporting various bodily functions, from bone strength to immune system function. By prioritising a diet rich in fruits and vegetables brimming with minerals, you can ensure your body receives the necessary nutrients for optimal functioning.

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What are Minerals?

Minerals are silent workers in the background of our body’s operations; they may not get much credit, but they are necessary for overall health and wellness. These tiny nutrient particles essentially form the foundation of life itself, participating in everything it has to offer, from strong bones to healthy nerves and even more functions beyond that. 

They do all this, keeping themselves hidden behind the curtain so as not to boast too much about their achievements while silently doing what is necessary for smooth bodily performance, without which we would be unable to carry out any complex tasks. 

Minerals should get more recognition – ranging from calcium through zinc, and these overlooked heroes deserve some love!

What are the Sources of Minerals?

Our bodies have many places to get the minerals they need to be healthy. Luckily, plenty of natural places can provide them. Leafy greens may be found in many different forms, such as dense forests or deep undersea where fish live. 

There is no shortage of foods with lots of minerals that people can eat—whether it’s hard-shelled seeds that crunch between your teeth or juicy fruits filled with natural sugars. Everyone should be able to find something they like while still getting all necessary mineral requirements.

Top 38 Food Items High in Minerals

Starting on a trip towards prime health frequently means knowing the nutrition facts of what we eat well. Minerals are important in supporting different body functions, such as strengthening bones and regulating metabolism, among others, as well as aiding with nerve work and maintaining fluid balance. 

This all-inclusive manual will look at the 38 best foods rich in significant minerals; it ranges from bright-coloured fruits to vegetables full of life, nourishing nuts seeds or even wholesome cereals – everything you need for making wise decisions about meals that would foster good health while ensuring an adequate supply of nutrients each day consumed.

List of Minerals Rich Vegetables

These are vegetables full of minerals; we’ve selected them from all the earth’s fruits and vegetables, making it possible for you to have a balanced diet.

SNo.

Vegetables Minerals (Per 100 grams)
1 Spinach

Calcium: 99 mg
Iron: 2.7 mg
Magnesium: 79 mg
Potassium: 558 mg

2 Kale Calcium: 150 mg
Iron: 1.5 mg
Magnesium: 47 mg
Potassium: 491 mg
3 Broccoli Calcium:47 mg
Iron: 0.73 mg
Magnesium: 21 mg
Potassium: 316 mg
4 Brussels Sprouts Calcium: 42 mg
Iron: 1.4 mg
Magnesium: 23 mg
Potassium: 389 mg
5 Asparagus Calcium: 24 mg
Iron: 2.14 mg
Magnesium: 14 mg
Potassium: 202 mg
6 Sweet Potato Calcium: 30 mg
Iron: 0.61 mg
Magnesium: 25 mg
Potassium: 337 mg
7 Carrots Calcium: 33 mg
Iron: 0.3 mg
Magnesium: 12 mg
Potassium: 320 mg
8 Beetroot Calcium: 16 mg
Iron: 0.8 mg
Magnesium: 23 mg
Potassium: 22 mg
9 Cauliflower Calcium: 22 mg
Iron: 0.42 mg
Magnesium: 15 mg
Potassium: 299 mg

List of Fruits Rich in Minerals

You can satisfy your hunger and get necessary vitamins at the same time by eating these fruits, which contain important nutrients such as minerals that your body needs.

SNo.

Fruits Minerals (Per 100 grams)
10 Bananas Calcium: 5 mg
Iron: 0.3 mg
Magnesium: 27 mg
Potassium: 358 mg
11 Oranges Calcium: 43 mg
Iron: 0.1 mg
Magnesium: 10 mg
Potassium: 181 mg
12 Avocado Calcium: 12 mg
Iron: 0.6 mg
Magnesium: 29 mg
Potassium: 485 mg
13 Figs Calcium: 35 mg
Iron: 0.4 mg
Magnesium: 17 mg
Potassium: 232 mg
14 Apricots Calcium: 13 mg
Iron: 0.4 mg
Magnesium: 13 mg
Potassium: 259 mg
15 Kiwi Calcium: 34 mg
Iron: 0.3 mg
Magnesium: 17 mg
Potassium: 312 mg
16 Dates Calcium: 39 mg
Iron: 0.9 mg
Magnesium: 54 mg
Potassium: 656 mg

List of Cereals and Dairy Products Containing Minerals

Choose fortified breakfast foods like cereal grains or dairy products if you want something healthy for the beginning of your day; they will give all the necessary mineral elements that should be consumed daily as part of a balanced diet plan!

SNo.

Cereals and Dairy Products Minerals (Per 100 grams)
17 Oatmeal Calcium: 54 mg
Iron: 4 mg
Magnesium: 54 mg
Potassium: 429 mg
18 Greek Yoghurt Calcium: 110 mg
Iron: 0.2 mg
Magnesium: 11 mg
Potassium: 141 mg
19 Almond Milk Calcium: 188 mg
Iron: 0.8 mg
Magnesium: 15 mg
Potassium: 146 mg
20 Cheddar Cheese Calcium: 721 mg
Iron: 0.2 mg
Magnesium: 28 mg
Potassium: 98 mg
21 Cottage Cheese Calcium: 83 mg
Iron: 0.1 mg
Magnesium: 7 mg
Potassium: 104 mg
22 Skim Milk Calcium: 125 mg
Iron: 0.1 mg
Magnesium: 10 mg
Potassium: 150 mg

List of Seeds and Nuts Rich in Minerals

Intake of seeds or nuts with essential minerals added as snacks will boost nutrient content while providing some crunchiness – another way to ensure we’re not missing out on any required nutrients from our meals.

SNo.

Seeds and Nuts Minerals (Per 100 grams)
23 Pumpkin Seeds Zinc: 7.5 mg
Iron: 8.8 mg
Magnesium: 592 mg
Potassium: 809 mg
24 Almonds Zinc: 3.1 mg
Iron: 3.7 mg
Magnesium: 270 mg
Potassium: 733 mg
25 Cashews Zinc: 5.8 mg
Iron: 6.7 mg
Magnesium: 292 mg
Potassium: 660 mg
26 Sunflower Seeds Zinc: 5 mg
Iron: 5.25 mg
Magnesium: 325 mg
Potassium: 645 mg
27 Flaxseeds Zinc: 4.3 mg
Iron: 5.73 mg
Magnesium: 392 mg
Potassium: 813 mg
28 Chia Seeds Zinc: 4.58 mg
Iron: 7.72 mg
Magnesium: 335 mg
Potassium: 407 mg
29 Brazil Nuts Zinc: 4.06 mg
Iron: 2.43 mg
Magnesium: 376 mg
Potassium: 659 mg
30 Walnuts Zinc: 3.09 mg
Iron: 2.91 mg
Magnesium: 158 mg
Potassium: 441 mg

List of Animal and Seafood High in Minerals

Fish, meat, shellfish… there is an endless variety of animal-based dishes rich in natural salts and trace elements throughout oceans worldwide. When cooked correctly (grilled/steamed), they can be deliciously tasty AND healthy additions to one’s diet – just as the doctor ordered!

SNo.

Animal and Seafood Minerals (Per 100 grams)
31 Beef Liver Zinc: 4.3 mg
Iron: 6.5 mg
Calcium: 10 mg
Potassium: 380 mg
32 Salmon Zinc: 0.5 mg
Iron: 0.6 mg
Calcium: 12 mg
Potassium: 363 mg
33 Oysters Zinc: 16.6 mg
Iron: 5.7 mg
Calcium: 59 mg
Potassium: 196 mg
34 Shrimp Zinc: 1.3 mg
Iron: 1.2 mg
Calcium: 37 mg
Potassium: 259 mg
35 Chicken Breast Zinc: 0.9 mg
Iron: 0.7 mg
Calcium: 11 mg
Potassium: 256 mg
36 Tuna Zinc: 0.7 mg
Iron: 1 mg
Calcium: 13 mg
Potassium: 259 mg
37 Turkey Zinc: 2.4 mg
Iron: 1.5 mg
Calcium: 13 mg
Potassium: 246 mg
38 Sardines Zinc: 1.1 mg
Iron: 2.9 mg
Calcium: 382 mg
Potassium: 397 mg

How Much Minerals Should You Intake?

As outlined by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), understanding the recommended daily intake of minerals is crucial for maintaining optimal health across various life stages. 

The table below presents the recommended daily intake of essential minerals for different demographics, offering valuable insights into ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet to support overall well-being.

Age Group Recommended Mineral Intake (milligrams per day)
Infants 0-6 months Calcium: 200 mg
Iron: 0.27 mg
Magnesium: 30 mg
Zinc: 2 mg
Infants 7-12 months Calcium: 260 mg
Iron: 11 mg
Magnesium: 75 mg
Zinc: 3 mg
Children 1-3 years Calcium: 700 mg
Iron: 7 mg
Magnesium: 80 mg
Zinc: 3 mg
Children 4-8 years Calcium: 1000 mg
Iron: 10 mg
Magnesium: 130 mg
Zinc: 5 mg
Children 9-13 years Calcium: 1300 mg
Iron: 8 mg
Magnesium: 240 mg
Zinc: 8 mg
Male Teens 14-18 years Calcium: 1300 mg
Iron: 11 mg
Magnesium: 410 mg
Zinc: 11 mg
Female Teens 14-18 years Calcium: 1300 mg
Iron: 15 mg
Magnesium: 360 mg
Zinc: 9 mg
Male Adults 19+ years Calcium: 1000 mg
Iron: 8 mg
Magnesium: 400-420 mg
Zinc: 11 mg
Female Adults 19+ years Calcium: 1000 mg
Iron: 18 mg
Magnesium: 310-320 mg
Zinc: 8 mg
Pregnant Teens Calcium: 1300 mg
Iron: 27 mg
Magnesium: 400 mg
Zinc: 13 mg
Lactating Teens Calcium: 1300 mg
Iron: 10 mg
Magnesium: 360 mg
Zinc: 14 mg
Lactating Adults Calcium: 1000 mg
Iron: 9 mg
Magnesium: 310-320 mg
Zinc: 12 mg

Health Benefits of Mineral Rich Foods

Mineral-rich foods are key components to attaining robust health. By consuming more calcium-dense edibles, like milk, for strong bones, among others, including those that enhance immune system functioning, individuals should expect positive changes within their bodies. 

  • Stronger Bones: Mineral-packed foods, such as spinach and dairy products, are necessary for maintaining strong bones and preventing diseases such as osteoporosis, weakness, and cramps.
  • Better Immunity: Minerals like zinc and selenium in seafood, nuts and seeds are important because they help the immune system work properly, thus allowing it to fight infections and illnesses better.
  • Healthier Heart: Fruits with high potassium content and vegetables with magnesium, including nuts and seeds, can aid in regulating BP levels, reducing chances of getting heart attack or stroke.
  • Proper Nerve Functioning: Calcium, potassium, and magnesium are some minerals that play a significant role in ensuring that nerves send signals correctly, promoting brain health while decreasing risks associated with nervous breakdowns.
  • More Energy: These foodstuffs have abundant iron quantities, e.g., lean meats and fortified cereals; they prevent tiredness by supporting red blood cell production so that there is an enhancement in energy levels, leading to anaemia prevention, too.
  • Beautiful Skin & Hair: Seafoods contain minerals such as selenium zinc found in nuts, which are essential for healthy skin and hair care as they promote collagen synthesis, preventing premature ageing.

Different Ways to Include Mineral Rich Foods in Your Diet

Use our helpful information to incorporate yummy, mineral-rich foods into your daily recipes. From easy exchanges to flavorful supplementations, here are ways to increase your nutritional intake and bring your diet to new heights of health and energy.

  • Smoothies plus Juices: Mix fruits and seeds with leafy vegetables like spinach and kale for breakfast or snacks into nutrient-rich smoothies or juices.
  • Salads plus Bowls: Use several different vegetables, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins such as chicken or tofu to generate vibrant salads and bowls that are both nourishing and filling.
  • Snack Time: For a fast energy boost and important minerals, eat nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, which are handy portable snacks.
  • Soups, as well as Stews: By adding beans, vegetables, legumes, etc., you will get lots of flavour nutrients while making soups and stews, which are heartier meals with minerals.
  • Grain-Based Dishes: Make stir-fries pilaf grain bowls more nutritious and filling by using whole grains like brown rice, barley, quinoa, etc.
  • Seafood Delights: Enjoy delicious flavours while taking iodine and selenium zinc by including salmon and mackerel shrimp in seafood dishes.

What are the Symptoms of Minerals Deficiency?

To stay healthy, you need to know the signs of mineral deficiency. Here are some common symptoms caused by a lack of essential mineral nutrients in your diet so that you can recognise them early enough before they affect your health.

What are the Health Risks of Not Getting Enough Minerals?

Making sure that you have enough minerals is important for good health. This guide will discuss the possible risks of not getting enough minerals. 

  • Fragile Bones and Teeth: Insufficient intake of minerals such as calcium or phosphorus can result in weak bones or teeth, which are prone to break easily, thus increasing the chances of tooth decay.
  • Muscle Weakness and Spasms: Lack of magnesium, potassium or sodium, among other electrolytes needed by muscles, may cause them to become weak, cramp frequently, or spasm involuntarily, affecting one’s ability to perform normal daily tasks.
  • Fatigue and Decreased Energy Levels: If adequate amounts of iron and magnesium are not taken in through food, tiredness sets in quickly, leading to low-energy states where stamina becomes greatly reduced. 
  • Suppressed Immunity: When immune systems lack sufficient minerals like zinc and selenium, also known as antioxidants, they tend to function poorly, lowering the ability to fight off infections, including chronic diseases.
  • Cardiovascular Problems: Potassium and other essential minerals, like magnesium and calcium, play crucial roles in our cardiovascular system; hence, their deficiencies can lead to high blood pressure (BP).
  • Disordered Nervous System Function: Neurological issues such as migraines, anxiety attacks, and depression coupled with cognitive decline might be prompted by insufficient consumption of some key elements, namely potassium alongside magnesium.

What are the Side Effects of Excessive Mineral Intake?

Although minerals are necessary for good health, taking them in excessive quantities can harm the body. Here are some of the side effects one needs to know:

  • Digestive Problems: Ingesting too much magnesium or zinc may cause digestive issues, such as diarrhoea, nausea, and stomach cramps.
  • Kidney Damage: An overabundance of calcium or phosphorus intake could strain the kidneys and make them more susceptible to stones or injury.
  • Imbalance of Electrolytes: Taking sodium or potassium minerals excessively can disrupt electrolyte levels, dehydrating us with weak muscles.
  • Bone Worries: It has been found that consuming large amounts of fluoride (in water) alongside Vitamin D adversely affects bones, thereby causing skeletal fluorosis.
  • Toxicity: Ingesting high doses, especially those richly represented by iron salts, will result in poisoning along with damage inflicted on organs such as the liver.
  • Interference With Medication: Some medicines may not work properly when consumed with some particular nutrient elements due to over-absorption. 

Should You Take a Mineral Supplement?

Whether or not to use mineral supplements can be affected by many different factors, such as dietary habits, health status, and specific mineral requirements. Many times, all the necessary nutrients needed by the body are supplied in sufficient amounts through a good diet, which consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products.

However, some people may need minerals added to their bodies by taking supplements with the help of healthcare professionals. Such populations include those with certain dietary restrictions or preferences, patients suffering from particular diseases that interfere with mineral absorption or metabolism, such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, and persons unable to meet their needs for these elements from food alone.

Nevertheless, it is worth noting that consuming too many minerals than required can have negative effects on your health, especially when taken in the form of pills. Therefore, before you start using any product, consult your doctor first since they may prescribe other medications based on what you tell them about yourself. This decision ultimately depends upon individualised advice, keeping overall well-being into account.

Recognising the importance of minerals in our diet is crucial to staying healthy. A list of the most mineral-rich foods can be very useful for those who want to improve their nutrition. You should try different meals with these products full of nutrients—they will help your body work properly and keep you fit. Don’t forget that being healthy means eating well-balanced meals consisting mainly of fresh fruits and vegetables but also nuts, seeds, whole grains, etc. 

FAQs about Mineral Rich Foods, Fruits & Vegetables

Which food is high in minerals?

Minerals are mostly found in cereals, bread, meat, fish, milk, nuts, fruits and vegetables.

What are the major minerals in food?

Calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and sodium are the major minerals used and stored in the body.

Which fruits have the most minerals?

Fruits like oranges, pineapples, mango and papayas have the most minerals.

How to increase body minerals?

You can increase body minerals by incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and cereals.

Are bananas high in minerals?

Yes, bananas are relatively high in minerals, with a higher potassium level of 358 mg per 100 grams of quantity.

Which vegetable is rich in minerals?

Vegetables like asparagus, spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich sources of minerals, including almost all types of minerals.

What minerals cause deficiency?

Iron, zinc, and iodine are the most prominent minerals that cause deficiency. These nutrients have more noticeable side effects than others.

What are the symptoms of mineral deficiency?

There are various symptoms for different minerals, but some common symptoms are brittle hair and nails, mouth ulcers, bleeding gums, dandruff and hair loss.

Which fruit is rich in calcium?

One of the richest sources of calcium is orange. One whole orange has around 43 mg of calcium.

Do carrots have minerals?

Yes, carrots are a great source of minerals like biotin, potassium and vitamins.

How to cure mineral deficiency?

You can cure mineral deficiency by changing eating habits and incorporating Mineral Rich foods into meals.

What drink is best for minerals?

Lime, lemon, grapefruit, and orange juice are some drinks best for minerals.

How many minerals do we need daily?

The recommended daily intake of minerals for a normal adult is 1000 mg calcium, 8-18 mg iron, 300-400 mg magnesium and 8-11 mg zinc.

What deficiency causes heavy legs?

Although various deficiencies affect the legs, deficiency of Vitamin D or B-12 causes heaviness and cramps in the legs.

What happens if you eat too much mineral?

Very large doses of minerals have several adverse effects like iron toxicity, nausea, gastrointestinal upset and black bowel actions.

Does boiling water remove minerals?

No, boiling water does not remove minerals. Alternatively, when boiled, minerals like calcium, magnesium and sodium are more concentrated.

What are vitamins primarily used for?

Vitamins are primarily used for boosting the immune system, supporting normal growth and development, and helping cells and organs do their job.