zinc
EVERYONE’S REACHING FOR ZINC - AND FOR GOOD REASON!
Many of us are aware of the importance of macronutrients like proteinand carbohydrates in the diet, but micronutrients, including minerals likezinc, are also essential for good health. Read on to learn more about zincand why it’s in such high demand!
Zinc is an essential trace mineral that the human body requires in smallamounts for proper function. It is considered essential because the bodycannot synthesize or store it, so it must be consumed through diet orsupplements every day to maintain optimal levels.
SUPPORTS IMMUNE FUNCTION
The immune system is our body’s first line of defenseagainst illness and infection. It requires zinc for healthyfunction, and even slight deficiencies in this essentialmicronutrient have been linked to autoimmuneconditions, recurrent infections and chronichealth issues.
PROMOTES HEALTHY SKIN
Zinc may also promote healthy skin due to itsanti-inflammatory properties. Since inflammationis the root cause of acne and many other skinconditions such as rosacea and psoriasis, zinccan play a prominent role in abating them.
PROMOTES WOUND HEALING
A study was conducted with 60 diabetic patients whohad foot ulcers. One group was given a placebo andthe other group a 50-milligram zinc supplement.After twelve weeks, the group who receivedsupplemental zinc had a significant reductionin the size of their foot ulcers, while the placebogroup showed no significant change.
PROTECTS VISION
Zinc may slow down the progression of age-relatedmacular degeneration by promoting cellular functionand reducing oxidative stress. Age-related maculardegeneration is a leading cause of vision loss affectingthe macula, a part of the retina that contains a highconcentration of zinc.
SIGNS YOU MAY BE DEFICIENT
ymptoms of mild zinc deficiency can includefrequent infections and low resistance to illnesseslike the common cold, decreased appetite, dry skin,fertility issues, and impaired wound healing.In severe cases, zinc deficiency can lead tochronic diarrhea, behavioural issues, andeven impaired growth and development.
DIETARY SOURCES OF ZINC
The best dietary sources of zinc include poultry,meat and shellfish. It can also be found in nuts, seeds,whole grains, and dairy products. It’s important toknow that the body cannot absorb zinc from plantsources as efficiently as it can from animal protein.If you follow a plant-based diet, a zinc supplementmay be a good idea.