Prevention is built on small, consistent habits. First, prioritize mineral-dense eating: a daily base of legumes/whole grains + leafy greens + quality protein + yogurt/kefir. Second, manage high-loss periods: during diarrhea/vomiting, heavy sweating, heat exposure, or intense training, consider electrolyte balance—not water alone (unless you have conditions like kidney/heart disease requiring medical guidance). Third, reduce absorption-disrupting habits (excess tea/coffee right after meals, chronic very-low-calorie dieting, irregular protein intake). Fourth, account for medications and diseases that affect minerals (diuretics, long-term acid suppressants, GI disorders). Fifth, use supplements as targeted, time-limited tools when deficiency is documented, not as continuous “cures.”\n\nSource note: NIH ODS mineral fact sheets (dietary sources, absorption, interactions).