What roles of minerals in enzymes?

Answer 1

What are enzymes?

Enzymes are chemical substances produced in the living organism. They are marvelous organic catalysts which are essential to life as they control all the chemical reactions that take place in a living system. Enzymes are part of all living cells, including those of plants and animals.

It has been estimated that there are over 20,000 enzymes in the human body. This estimate is based on the number of bodily processes that seem to require action. However, so far only about 1000 enzymes have been identified but their essential role in nutrition and other living processes has been firmly established.

Enzymes are protein molecules that play a vital role and work very efficiently. For instance, a chemist can separate proteins into their component amino acids by boiling them at 166 degrees C for over 18 hours in a strong solution of hydrochloric acid, but the enzymes of the small intestines can do so in less than three hours at body temperature in a neutral medium.

How do enzymes work?

A striking feature of enzymes is that while they enter into chemical reaction, they remain intact in the process. They however, act with maximum efficiency at a certain temperature. Lowering the temperature below or raising it above this level slows the reaction. A high degree of heat, that is above 60 degrees C, permanently destroys their action.

What makes enzymes so special is that they are absolutely specific in their actions. A particular enzyme can only cause reactions involving a particular type of substance. The substance must fit the enzyme like a key fits a lock.

Enzymes form part of the food we eat. Raw foods contain enzymes in abundance. Cooking, pasteurizing, pickling, smoking and other processing destroys enzymes. It is, therefore, essential to include in our diet, substantial amount of raw foods. Studies have revealed that the body without sufficient raw materials from raw foods, may tire and produce fewer enzymes year after year. This may lead to wearing out of body processes and consequently worn-out appearances.

Answer 2

Minerals serve as cofactors in enzymes, helping to activate and stabilize the enzyme's structure. They are essential for enzyme function by participating in catalytic reactions or assisting in electron transfer processes. Some minerals, like zinc and magnesium, are crucial for maintaining the enzyme's optimal shape and activity.