ABSTRACT
Nutrition is one of the ways by which the body gets the required or essential trace elements. Trace elements are crucial for the normal functioning of an organism, although they are required in minute quantities. These trace elements include zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), selenium (Se), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), iodine (I), manganese (Mn), and molybdenum (Mo). They serve as co-factors, participate in oxidation-reduction reaction, maintain structural integrity, and act in metabolic and physiologic processes. However, deficiency or excess of these elements can result in dysfunction of the organism’s cells and tissues. Many individuals, because of urbanization, do not scrutinize their diet, and as a result, are not conscious of their trace-element intake. This review evaluates the role of trace elements in nutrition as well as the various diseases tied to their deficiencies and excesses.
