Description
Functions in the Body
Zinc is an essential mineral crucial for maintaining numerous bodily functions. It plays a vital role in more than 200 enzyme systems, supporting processes such as cell growth, protein synthesis, and wound healing. Zinc is integral to the immune system, helping the body combat infections and enhancing its response to illnesses. It also contributes to sensory functions, influencing the senses of taste, smell, and vision. Moreover, zinc is key for reproductive health, with deficiencies potentially leading to prostate enlargement and male infertility. Its potent antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress, promoting skin health and overall well-being. Maintaining adequate zinc levels through diet or supplements is essential for optimal health and ensuring the proper functioning of vital physiological processes.
Deficiency Symptoms
Zinc deficiency can lead to loss of appetite, slowed growth and development, sluggishness, irritability, impaired taste and smell, rashes, reduced sperm production, a weakened immune system, slower wound healing, and birth defects in pregnant women.
Synergy & Antagonism
Zinc works synergistically with vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin D, vitamin E, chromium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus to support immune function, growth, and wound healing. Zinc is antagonistic to vitamin B1, PABA, vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin E, calcium, copper, iron, phosphorus, aluminum, cadmium, mercury, nickel, and lead, as these can inhibit zinc absorption or utilization in excessive amounts. Phytates found in legumes and whole grains can also reduce zinc absorption.
ZINC
Warnings
Zinc can interact with medications such as antibiotics, HIV/AIDS medications, cisplatin, penicillamine, and retinol. Long-term supplementation without balancing with copper can lead to copper deficiency.
Food Sources
Zinc can be found in nutritional yeast, red meat, poultry, oysters, beans, and nuts.
Time Frame
It is recommended to take zinc in the morning on an empty stomach for better absorption.
Depleted By
Zinc levels can be depleted by alcohol, antacids, hypothyroidism medications, corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, bisphosphonates, nicotine, hormone replacements, hyperuricemia medications, fluoride, diuretics, statins, anti-cancer medications, caffeine, blood thinners, blood pressure medications, antivirals, antibiotics, analgesics, anti-inflammatories, NSAIDs, and opioids. Additionally, phytates in certain plant-based foods can impair zinc absorption.