Minerals
Minerals are inorganic elements that contribute significantly to human nutrition (1)(2). They have many roles in metabolism and are vital for the function of organs, tissue and cells (2). Minerals also play a role in the building of muscle and bone (2).
1. Linus Pauling
http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/glossary.html#M
2. U.S. National Library and the National Institute of Health
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007271.htm