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Zinc Benefits
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Zinc is an essential mineral that plays an important role in the body's synthesis of protein and helps in regulating the production of cells in the immune system of the human body. Zinc stimulates the activity of about 100 enzymes in the body. Enzymes are substances that promote biochemical reactions in the body.
The essential trace element of zinc plays extensive biological roles in human beings. Among other functions, zinc interacts with a wide range of organic ligands and plays a vital role in the metabolism of RNA and DNA, signal transduction, and gene expression. |
Most of the zinc in the body is found in the muscles while a significant amount is also found in the bones. About 5% of the body's zinc are found in the skin.
Males typically require more zinc than females as semen contains about a hundred times more zinc than the blood. The prostate glands also have large concentrations of zinc.
A diet with meat often consists of more zinc than a diet of vegetables. The following are the most important dietary sources of zinc:
- beef
- lamb
- liver
- wheat and other whole grains
- nuts
- almonds
- black currant
- turnips
- sesame seeds
- poppy seeds
- alfalfa seeds
A deficiency in zinc often leads to the following conditions: low blood pressure, retarded growth, loss of appetite, rough skin, loss of sense of smell and taste, diarrhea, hair loss, fatigue, loss of weight, mental lethargy and depression, among others. Meanwhile, taking zinc above 150 to 450 mg per day have been associated with low copper status, altered iron function, reduced immune function, and reduced levels of high-density lipoproteins (the good cholesterol).
The following are the zinc benefits that may be derived from this mineral:
Zinc helps maintain a healthy immune system.
Zinc contributes to healing of wounds.
Zinc is required in the ovulation and fertilization process.
Zinc supports normal growth and development during pregnancy.
Zinc is vital for maintenance of healthy skin.
Zinc helps maintain a sense of smell and taste.
Zinc contributes to the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, energy and lipids.
Zinc may also contribute to the control of diabetes.
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