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The chemical gradient results in the passive movement of ions from a region of higher concentration to lesser concentration. In horses, this process is achieved in the stomach, where hydrochloric acid assists in splitting apart groups of atoms, leaving them in an ionic state which allows them to more easily penetrate the intestinal wall, where a large amount of absorption takes place. The body preferentially absorbs minerals in ionic form, while other mineral forms (organic, colloidal) are not as readily absorbed.
The term used to describe the condition in which materials are held in a stable, colloidal suspension is called the 'dispersed phase.' In the dispersed phase they are distributed evenly and uniformly throughout whatever medium they are suspended. The problem with this is that the ability of colloids to be readily absorbed by the body is limited due to their size and that they are not charged. Without an electrical charge, minerals are not likely to penetrate the cell membrane.
Minerals found in the stable colloidal state, are too large and insoluble to dissolve but are also too small to settle out of the suspension. This fixed state of suspension occurs regardless of whether the substances are inorganic (metals) or organic (plant tissues). Colloids, by definition, cannot penetrate the semipermeable membranes which line the intestinal tract, mouth and esophagus. Because of their relatively large particle size, it is difficult for most living tissues to directly absorb colloids.
Ionic minerals are already in a form that the body recognizes and understands so they can be easily assimilated through the selectively permeable cell membranes. The colloidal minerals, on the other hand, must first undergo a process of conversion within the body prior to being absorbed, and then only a certain percentage is utilized after the conversion process. The bioavailability of a mineral is influenced by the form in which it is consumed in the diet, and by the presence of other factors in the food that enhance or depress mineral absorption and utilization.
Ions play an important role in the body. Larger minerals such as calcium, potassium, sodium, and chloride are some key ions that participate in the body's electrical conduction systems. Imbalances of any of these ions or certain trace ions in the body can negatively affect the transport of minerals across the cell membranes, leading to dysfunction. Meanwhile, trace minerals such as chromium, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, vanadium and copper have very specific effects in the body, and have far-reaching health effects as evidenced by current research
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