Minerals are inorganic elements that are essential for human nutrition and health. The 14 key minerals can be categorized as major minerals, which are needed in larger amounts, and trace minerals, which are needed in smaller amounts. Major minerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur, sodium, chloride, and potassium. These minerals are involved in many important functions like building bones and teeth, muscle contraction, nerve transmission, acting as electrolytes and cofactors for enzymes. Maintaining balanced levels of minerals is important for overall health and prevention of deficiencies and toxicities.