Zinc is important for immune system support, and can be found in many foods such as meat, poultry, shellfish, legumes, and whole grains.
There are many different forms of zinc supplements, each with varying levels of absorption.
KEY USES:
- Immune support
- Skin health
- Cognitive function
- Reproductive health
Most of us are familiar with minerals like calcium, magnesium, and maybe even potassium, but what about zinc? Zinc is a trace mineral, meaning the body only needs it in small amounts, yet it is still essential for more than 300 enzymes to carry out vital biochemical reactions.
What does Zinc do in the body?
Zinc is essential for many bodily functions. It is a major player in the creation of DNA, growth of cells, building proteins, and supporting the immune system.
Because of its role in helping cells to grow and multiply, adequate zinc is important during times of rapid growth, such as childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy
Zinc & the immune system
Zinc plays a significant role in many aspects of the immune system. It helps the growth and function of cells in your innate immune system, including T and B cells, which help your body protect against foreign substances.
Zinc & skin health
Zinc is needed to support skin health. About 6% of the body’s total zinc content is found in the skin and as zinc cannot be stored, a steady supply from the diet is vital to maintain zinc levels.
Zinc-dependant enzymes (or collagenases) in the skin make collagen – another important structural protein supporting skin strength and elasticity. Healthy skin contributes to immune function as the skin serves as the body’s first line of defence.
In addition, zinc protects cells against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress may contribute to premature aging
Zinc & brain health
Zinc is an important nutrient in brain health and cognition because it supports communication between cells in the brain
Foods rich in zinc
Thankfully, incorporating zinc in your diet is easy as many foods contain zinc. Meat, poultry, and seafood are the best sources of zinc, but zinc can also be found in some plant foods like legumes and whole grains.
However, these foods also often contain phytates that can bind to the mineral, lowering its absorption. If you do not get enough zinc through your diet, taking a supplement is an easy and effective way to ensure you’re not missing out on the nutrients you need.
From immune support to skin health, zinc plays an essential role in many bodily functions. Foods such as shellfish, beef, poultry, legumes, and whole grains are excellent sources of zinc.
When choosing a zinc supplement, no matter what form you take it in, don’t miss out on zinc’s many benefits!
Zinc contributes to normal:
- acid-base metabolism
- carbohydrate metabolism
- cognitive function
- DNA synthesis and the process of cell division
- fertility and reproduction
- macronutrient metabolism
- metabolism of fatty acids
- metabolism of vitamin A
- protein synthesis
- function of the immune system
Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, hair, nails and skin, normal testosterone levels in the blood, maintenance of normal vision & the protection of cells from oxidative stress