Take Zinc for Healthy Bodies and Minds

Submitted by Marsha Newsom on Sun, 02/21/2010 - 01:39

Zinc is a trace element that is necessary for many of our bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in the more than 300 enzymes in the human body. The 2-3 grams of zinc contained in adult bodies are found in all organs, tissues and bones. However, 90% of the zinc in our bodies in found in our bones and muscle. ¹

The Importance of Zinc

Vital for growth and cell division, zinc is especially important to growing fetuses. Zinc deficiencies are linked to congenital abnormalities and premature delivery. The element activates growth in infants, children and teenagers.

A key factor in male fertility, zinc helps maintain sperm count, mobility, and normal levels of serum testosterone. For women, zinc can treat menstrual problems and PMS. In females, zinc can help treat menstrual problems and alleviate symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Zinc has the strongest impact on human immune systems, playing a unique role on T-cells. Low zinc levels lead to reduced and weakened T-cells, which makes it harder for the body to fight infection. Zinc can help fight infections, and help reduce the duration and severity of the common cold.

Other Important Effects

Zinc levels can help your appetite. It activates the areas of the brain the control taste and smell and has been helpful in the treatment of anorexia. Used as a topical cream, zinc can soothe baby's diaper rash, and treat acne, psoriasis, and other skin diseases. It acts as an anti-inflammatory agent when treating poison ivy, sunburn, and blisters. Baldness has been linked to low levels of zinc, as have thinning, dull and graying hair. Added to shampoos, zinc can prevent dandruff. Zinc can even impact vision. Low levels of zinc can play a role in macular degeneration, night blindness and cataracts.

Zinc and your Food

Zinc is readily available in our food, primarily in red meat, fish and poultry. Plants are a poor source of zinc. Fiber and phytic acids contained in plants inhibit the absorption of plant-based zinc.

References

1. Zinc - Essential for Human Health ,International Zinc Association,

photo by Helmut Gevert

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