Guides
Essential Elements for the Human Body (Major and Trace)
The human body is built from many chemical elements, of which roughly two dozen are essential for life. By how much is present, they split into major and trace elements, each with irreplaceable physiological roles.
Major elements (larger amounts)
| Element | Main role |
|---|---|
| O, C, H, N | make up water, proteins, carbohydrates, fats and nucleic acids |
| Calcium Ca, Phosphorus P | main components of bone and teeth; P is in ATP energy and DNA |
| Potassium K, Sodium Na, Chlorine Cl | fluid balance, nerve and muscle signalling |
| Sulfur S, Magnesium Mg | protein structure; Mg in many enzyme reactions |
Trace elements (tiny but essential)
| Element | Main role |
|---|---|
| Iron Fe | haemoglobin carries oxygen |
| Zinc Zn | part of many enzymes; immunity |
| Iodine I | thyroid hormones |
| Cu, Mn, Se, Mo, Co, Cr, F | enzyme cofactors, antioxidants, bone and teeth, etc. |
Note
"Essential" means a deficiency causes dysfunction, but excess is also harmful — balance matters. This is an educational overview; for dietary advice consult a professional. To explore these elements' own properties, see the browse view or each element page.