Nutritional Guide

Why you need it?

An essential trace mineral which is needed in greater amounts than any other trace mineral except Iron. Zinc is a component of more than 300 enzymes that are needed to repair wounds, maintain fertility, synthesize protein, help cells reproduce, preserve vision, boost immunity and protect against free radicals, among other functions.

Zinc is also essential for insulin function, vision, taste perception and provides protection against heavy metal toxicity, such as cadmium and lead as well as copper toxicity as in Wilson's disease.

Taking zinc lozenges has been reported to halve the number of days cold symptoms are present.

• Zinc is involved in the synthesis of cholesterol, protein, and fats. In addition, it regulates the release of vitamin A from the liver.
• Zinc affects cell growth, especially the epithelial tissue.
• Prostate reproductive health requires zinc. Zinc inhibits the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that irreversibly converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, a form of testosterone that binds most strongly to prostate tissue causing hypertrophy.
• Zinc is required for vision.
• Zinc is also needed as: an antioxidant cofactor for SOD; a cofactor for alcohol metabolism; a cofactor for delta 6 desaturase --> PGE1 synthesis.

Deficiency Symptoms:

Loss of appetite and impaired sense of taste. In children, it may lead to poor growth and in severe cases, to delayed sexual development and dwarfism.

Good Food Sources:

Oysters, meat, eggs, seafood, black-eyed peas, tofu, wheat germ.

Precautions

GRAS - Generally recognised as safe. No adverse reactions, side effects or overdose symptoms expected when taken within the recommended amounts.

Zinc intake in excess of 300 mg per day may impair immune function. Some people report that zinc lozenges lead to mild problems, such as stomachache, nausea, mouth irritation, and a 'bad' taste.Zinc inhibits copper absorption, which can lead to anaemia and lower levels of HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol). Copper intake should be increased if zinc supplementation continues for more than two months (except for individuals with Wilson's disease).

Zinc competes for absorption with iron, calcium and magnesium. A multi-mineral supplement will prevent mineral imbalances that can result from taking high doses of zinc for extended periods of time.

N-acetyl cysteine, or NAC may increase urinary excretion of zinc. Long-term users of NAC may consider adding supplements of zinc and copper.

No adverse effects have been reported as a result of taking Zinc supplements during pregnancy or lactation.

The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only. Neither the information provided nor products supplied or offered should be construed to be in any way substitutes for medical attention or prescribed medication. Consult with your healthcare professional before taking any supplements or herbal remedies if you are suffering from an undiagnosed illness or if you are on prescribed medication.

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