Zinc – The Famous Trace Mineral & Why You Need It

Function and Importance

Zinc is an essential trace mineral, antioxidant, and is found in every cell of the body. It works directly with more than 300 critical enzymes in our bodies.

The body contains 2 – 3 grams of zinc and most of it is found in adrenals, brain and eyes, hence “No zinc no think”. Zinc is the hardest mineral to absorb and its deficiency is very widespread.

DNA synthesis – works directly in cellular metabolism and maintains DNA integrity. Several proteins involved directly in DNA damage signaling and repair, replicating enzymes and transcription factors require zinc for proper functioning. When the body is deficient in zinc, the functioning of those signaling molecules and proteins is disrupted and can result in poor maintenance and damage of DNA and formation of cancer.

Supports healthy growth and development – when zinc levels in the body are low, physical and sexual development in growing children can be retarded. People deficient in zinc can develop mental diseases and increased infections.

Health Benefits

Immune support – it plays an important role in cell division, cell growth and breakdown of carbohydrates. Zinc promotes the growth of white blood cells, which fight infections and, as an antioxidant, it fights free radicals in the body. Studies have shown that it can prevent colds and flu, and if taken at the first symptoms, can shorten its duration.

Fertility and sexual health – deficiencies in zinc significantly affect our hormone balance and especially male reproductive health. It’s been shown in studies to change sperm composition and quantity.

Sensory organs – an acute depletion of zinc causes taste and smell loss. It is reversible in most people when the zinc levels are brought back to normal. It works together with vitamin A to support vision, by sensing light and sending nerve impulses to the brain.

Skin health – zinc is important in wound healing, has anti-inflammatory effects, and protects against UV radiation. Zinc also assists in proper protein formation and cell membrane structure. Here again it works in unison with vitamin A (or retinol), which is very crucial for a healthy skin.

Supplementation

Make sure it is from a reputable, high-quality manufacturer.

Best forms are when sourced as true amino acid chelate: glycerinate, picolinate, orotate, gluconate.

According to the National Institutes for Health:
- infants 7 months – 3 years should get 3 mg daily;
- children 4 – 8 years – 5 mg;
- 9 – 13 years – 8 mg;
- males 14 years and older – 11 mg;
- females 14 -18 – 9 mg;
- pregnant females 19 and older – 11 mg.

Therapeutic doses

30-75mg/day:

Wound Healing: Take 1 month before, 1 month after surgery

Burns: 50-75 mg/day

Cold Prevention/Sore throats: (lozenges) 25-50 mg of zinc

This Doctor-recommended, Holistic Nutritionist formulated Ultimate Digestive Health 30-Day system is designed for busy people who want the energy, vitality, and optimism that come with a healthy gut.

The 4-Part System includes 37 natural botanicals used for centuries to soothe, heal, and balance the gut gently and safely.

Daiva Rizvi

As a holistic nutritionist, I believe that vibrant health is the foundation of great life, and food and our environment has everything to do with our health. We all eat, every day. Sadly, this vital, pleasurable and such primal activity has become so confusing, stressful, and complicated for majority of us, that it is starting to look a lot like rocket science. My mission is to help you navigate through the ever changing and puzzling landscape of nutrition by weeding out all the noise and focusing on what’s truly important. Make it simple and fun.