Cobalt is a metal that is very hard has and silver-gray in appearance. It has a chemical symbol of Co, atomic number 27 and is found in ores. Primarily used for high strength, water resistant and magnetic alloys and used in part for making varnishes, paints and inks. Cobalt is necessary in very small amounts in all mammals and is used to treat several different types of cancer in humans by being a radioactive tracer and cancer treatment agent.

Industrial uses include radiography, food radiation for pasteurization and sterilization, steel belted radial tires, battery electrodes, pigments, porcelain enamels, paint and ink drying agents, electroplating, petrol catalysts, magnets, high speed steels, corrosion and super alloys such as in turbine aero plane engines.

Medicinal uses revolve generally around the radioactivity area of cobalt. It is used quite widely in radiotherapy and has two gamma rays that are used to eliminate bacteria found on fruit and vegetables and therefore prolonging the life of them known as irradiation. Because of the problems with radiation protection, many plants I western countries have stop coming into production.

In all living organisms, it is an essential mineral that helps us to function properly. It is only necessary in small amounts and so there exists little case for deficiency reported. It is a key component of vitamin B12.

The dangers associated with this mineral are not so much with our internal bodily functions but more with the fact of radiation being emitted from cobalt. A nuclear weapon or accident would be able to disperse a harmful form of cobalt into the atmosphere in a way that would affect us badly.

Although mineral supplements for cobalt are very rare, they do exist for those who need it. Mineral supplements are very common nowadays, especially because people are wanting to be not only more health conscious, but also are always looking for the quickest solution. It is therefore no surprise that mineral supplements have been proven to be very popular because they are cheap, easy to produce and take no time to ingest. They are available worldwide in places such as pharmacies and can also be bought at local supermarkets, especially in places like the United States and Great Britain.

It is important to take supplements as advised and it is recommended to take a certain amount of vitamins and minerals everyday to help our immune system stay working at 100%. It is also advised not to overdose on certain vitamins and minerals as they may cause serious side effects and affect certain bodily processes. Supplements are generally taken both for maintaining regular health but also to treat deficiencies so therefore they come in different strengths and dosages. There are a number of brands that sell mineral supplements so it is worth finding out which one is best for you. The cheapest option may not always be the best.

If you are unsure about taking supplements, contact your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can advise you on the best plan of action and give you more information about specific vitamins and minerals. It is advised to seek consultation especially if you are pregnant or currently taking any medication as this can affect the intake of supplements. Go to a registered pharmacy and make sure you read all the instructions on dosage and follow them strictly. More information can be found on the Internet.