The human body has a number of minerals that present in small amounts and are essential for its proper functioning. These are usually identifies as:
- Macrominerals like Sodium (Na) and Potassium (K).
- Trace elements like Iron, Iodine, Zinc, Copper, Chromium, Cobalt, Molybdenum, Fluoride etc.
Certain trace elements like zinc, magnesium, calcium, iron and chromium play an important role in depression (and anxiety). Therefore, including food materials rich in these trace elements in your diet is recommended. The following table gives you a fair idea about food items rich in these trace elements:
| Name | Sources |
| Calcium | All dairy products, leafy green vegetables, salmon, sardines and tofu (soyabean, paneer). |
| Magnesium | Brown rice, soybeans, nuts, whole grains and legumes. |
| Zinc | Whole grains products, eggs, meat, mushrooms and oysters. |
| Iron | Parsley, spinach and all other green leafy vegetables, shellfish, brewer’s yeast, wheat bran, cereals and dry fruits. |
| Chromium | Whole grain cereals, meat, cheese, molasses and egg yolk. |