ABSTRACT
Trace minerals are those minerals stored in the human body in quantities of 5 grams or less. Of the essential trace minerals, iron has received the most attention by far within the athlete population. The recommended dietary allowance for zinc is 15 mg/day in adult males and 12 mg/day in adult females. Another trace mineral that could affect exercise performance is copper. It is an essential part of one of several metalloenzymes which include cytochrome oxidase in the electron transport system, superoxide dismutase in the cytoplasm of cells, and lysyl oxidase needed in forming cross-links in collagen fibers. Vanadium is an ultratrace mineral that has received attention from athletes as being a potential ergogenic aid. Boron supplements have been marketed as a potential substitute for anabolic steroids because boron has been found to increase serum estrogen and testosterone levels in postmenopausal females.
