Think Zinc
Many of us think about zinc when the cold season comes around or when we get a sore throat. While zinc does play an essential role in the proper functioning of the immune system, this remarkable mineral has many other just as impressive functions. To begin, zinc is one of those fundamental nutrients in our body that makes up part of an enzyme system that regulates cell division, wound healing, and growth. It also assists with our sense of taste and smell, and helps the body make use of vitamin A and insulin.
Are you at risk for zinc deficiency? Most Americans do alright, but the undernourished population and those on a strict vegan diet may have mild deficiencies. Deficiencies show up in children with stunted growth, poor appetite, and decreased sense of taste. Zinc deficiency can impair wound healing, and suppress the immune system. Zinc deficiency is certainly more common in developing and poor countries, but even mild deficiencies can cause problems.
Some of the other health benefits attributed to zinc include cold prevention and treatment (mixed evidence), prostate health (little evidence), and prevention of macular degeneration (clinical evidence supports this). The importance of zinc in the body is certainly evident in studies of wound healing and reducing inflammation. During these processes, the high needs for zinc can be taken as a supplement. Zinc may also be applied topically to the skin to assist in healing. Zinc oxide, for example is used for many things from sunburn to diaper rash.
Zinc is found in turkey, shellfish, pork, some nuts and seeds. Oysters appear to have about the highest level. If you decide to supplement zinc, the recommended dietary allowance is 8 milligrams for women and 11 milligrams for men. There is some evidence that taking more than 18 to 25 milligrams of zinc daily for long periods of time can interfere with the absorption of copper. It can also eventually weaken the immune system.
Some clinicians might suggest a zinc challenge test to determine whether or not you may benefit from zinc supplementation. In this type of test you would swallow two teaspoons of a zinc liquid (basically zinc sulfate dissolved in water), hold the liquid in your mouth for 10 seconds and then swallow or spit it out. If you notice a bitter metallic taste than your zinc status is considered adequate. If it just tastes like water, then you may benefit from zinc supplementation. Side effects of overdoing zinc include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
March 23, 2010
by Optimum WellnessComments
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