Powering Life: The Six Essential Elements Vital for Human Health

Numerous nutrients are important to human health and wellness, but six key substances are particularly crucial. These elements are essential for life because they support vital biological processes that keep us alive: oxygen (O), carbon ©, hydrogen (H), nitrogen (N), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P).

Oxygen
Cellular respiration, which converts nutrients into energy, requires oxygen. Essential for all forms of life, it makes up over 65% of the human body and is a key ingredient in water (H₂O). “Breath is the finest gift of nature,” Our bodies rely on oxygen for a multitude of metabolic activities and energy generation; without it, we would be unable to operate.

Carbon

Around 18% of a human body contains carbon, the building block of all organic compounds. It plays a crucial role in the formation and operation of nucleic acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. According to Craig Venter, “Life itself is a derivative of carbon, so carbon is not something we can demonize.” This element is an essential component of our DNA and the food we consume because of its malleability and its ability to create complex compounds.

Hydrogen
The human body contains around 10% hydrogen, making it an essential…