Minerals are essential but in excess can cause organ damage.
How it harms
- Iron: described above (see section 3).
- Calcium: excess may cause kidney stones, nephrocalcinosis, and burden kidneys.
- Selenium & Zinc: in excess can lead to toxicity, which may secondarily stress liver/kidneys (though less directly documented).
Key risk factors
- Taking high‐dose mineral supplements without checking levels or needs.
- Combining many supplements/mineral fortifications that unintentionally sum to high doses.
How to protect yourself
- Test mineral levels (serum ferritin, calcium, etc) before supplementing.
- Avoid self-diagnosis and mega dosing minerals.
- Consider nutrient intake from food when calculating total mineral intake.Groceries
