Question

Major function of mineral magnesium is
A) Formation of bones
B) Maintenance of acid-base balance
C) Storing of energy
D) Activator of enzymes

Answer 1

Hint:Minerals are those compounds made up of one or elements and they play a key role in our body as they perform essential roles in different parts of our body.

Complete answer:
Minerals are of two types: macrominerals and microminerals. Macrominerals are those minerals which are required by the body in large amounts whereas microminerals are those which are required by the body in very minute amounts.
Examples of macrominerals are calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, chloride, etc. Examples of microminerals involve iron, zinc, iodine, copper, etc. let us analyze the options to find out the major function of magnesium.

>Option A: Calcium is a macromineral found in milk, fish and soy milk. Its major function is the formation of bones.Therefore, this is the incorrect option.
>Option B: Zinc is a micromineral found in meats, fish and poultry. Its major role is in the balancing of acid-base.Therefore, this is the incorrect option.
>Option C: Phosphorus is a macromineral found in eggs, meat and poultry. It helps in storage of energy in the body and plants and is a useful mineral.Therefore, this is the incorrect option.
>Option D: Magnesium is a macronutrient mainly found in nuts. It helps in the activation of enzymes that takes part in various reactions and mechanisms of the body.Therefore, this is the incorrect option.

Enzymes are biological catalysts that increase the rate of a reaction without getting consumed. Magnesium are catalysts which are involved in various reactions of the body including ATP synthesis.

Thus, the correct answer is option (D) Activator of enzymes.

Note:Magnesium acts as a cofactor to over 300 enzymes which regulates various biochemical reactions in our body. The other functions of magnesium are,
i) It helps in maintenance of normal muscle and nerve function.
ii) It helps in supporting a healthy immune system.
iii) It also has a role in maintaining the blood glucose levels.