When I tell my family members our bodies are energy, and we are made of the elements they laugh as if this is a fairy tale idea. I have read various articles, astrology, etc. but never had any scientific language that I comprehended deep enough to give them a truly clear and concise debate. I know that we truly are made up of all the elements of life, these same elements work together in various ways to form our bodily structures and the structures throughout our universe.
Our textbook states that “elements are pure substances composed of only one of more than a hundred types of atoms that exist in nature.” (Patton, 2020, p. 22) The four major elements are defined as making up greater than 96% of our body weight, these elements are Oxygen, Carbon, Hydrogen, and Nitrogen. These atoms are the building blocks of matter, they work together in an organized hierarchy to support and carry out bodily functions and processes, from balancing fluid, muscle contracting to nerve signaling. Along with these major elements, there are also more than 20 trace elements found throughout our bodies.
These atoms make up cells, which make up molecules. Molecules organize to structure tissues, tissues group together to form organs, which perform numerous special functions. Lastly, we have systems which are groups of organs that work together to carry out more complex functions for the body. Peterson’s book states, “although these systems have individual functions, it is important to remember they all exist in one body and, therefore, are interdependent.” (Peterson, 2020, p.28)
Consequently, it is important for us to maintain balance of fluids, minerals, and vitamins to help support these internal natural processes that are working together. Putting the right foods and water in our bodies help to maintain their functions and keep our bodies in balance. The basic elements of matter create a very intelligent hierarchy of chemical levels which sustain homeostasis.
References
Patton, K. T., & Thibodeau, G. A. (2020). Structure & Function of the body (16th ed.). Elsevier.
Petersen, D. (2020). Anatomy & Physiology I (19th ed.). American College of Healthcare Sciences.
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