What elements -- beneficial or harmful -- enter the human body from soils, by the way of the food crops that we consume? What are the pathways of these substances?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is There are both beneficial and harmful elements that enter the human body from soils through the food crops we consume.

Beneficial elements such as essential nutrients including potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium are absorbed by plants from the soil and then consumed by humans when they eat the crops. These elements are necessary for maintaining overall health and proper functioning of the body.

On the other hand, harmful elements such as heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic can also be absorbed by plants from contaminated soils. When humans consume these contaminated crops, these harmful elements can enter the body and cause various health problems.

The pathways of these substances entering the human body include direct consumption of the crops, as well as indirect consumption through animals that have consumed contaminated crops. Additionally, these substances can also enter the body through water sources that have been contaminated by the runoff from the soil.

It's important to monitor and regulate soil quality to ensure that the food crops grown in them are safe for human consumption, and to mitigate any potential health risks associated with harmful elements. Additionally, consuming a balanced diet with a variety of foods can help minimize the impact of harmful elements entering the body.

What Elements -- Beneficial or Harmful -- Enter the Human