Minerals from Drinking Water: Bioavailability for Various World Populations and Health Implications

Low mineral intakes from foods and water are common in many parts of the world. Today, subclinical deficiencies of iron, zinc and calcium prevail in the developed and developing world. Although dozens of geographical studies have been conducted on minerals in drinking water and their relationships to various diseases, the daily intake and the status of deficiency as well as their health consequence are still largely unknown. Furthermore, mineral bioavailability may change due to different stage of growth and ageing. In this chapter the health implication of low mineral content in drinking water in different age groups and gender from various parts of the world is assessed. Studies from Asia, North America, Europe, Africa and Australia were reviewed with regard to minerals in drinking water and the health effects reported.