Zinc

Zinc is an important mineral present in every part of the body and is involved in the management and direction of numerous bodily processes. It’s involved in the manufacture of DNA—specifically, in growth and cell division. It is needed for wound healing and helps to maintain a healthy immune system. It helps in the formation of insulin, and in brain functions. Some studies have shown the mineral to be effective in the treatment of schizophrenia. Perhaps the most touted benefits have to do with the effect that the mineral has on the male reproductive system. The mineral is very highly concentrated in male semen and in the prostate gland, and helps regulate sperm counts, and testosterone. For this reason, men will need zinc supplements more than women. To this end, a zinc supplement has been advanced as a fertility enhancer for both men and women.

Zinc is found in every part of the body, with 60% in the muscle, 30% in bone and 5% in skin. The large quantities of the mineral found in the body and the bone are not readily available. The body will have to obtain the proper dosages of the minerals from outside sources. Since the body does not retain the mineral for long after it is absorbed, a continual supply from both diet and zinc supplements will be needed. The primary food sources for diet are meat, eggs, seafood and oyster. These provide higher concentrations of the mineral than that found in cereals, which may be used as secondary sources.

A deficiency in zinc will manifest in anemia, appetite loss, growth retardation, hair loss, taste abnormalities, night blindness and impaired wound healing. These symptoms could apply to any number of medical conditions, so you should not automatically assume that you have a deficiency of this mineral if any one of these symptoms manifest. Certain lifestyle conditions predispose individuals to a potential deficiency. Vegetarians for example may need zinc supplements because plant foods do not provide proper absorption of the mineral. Alcoholics have been found to be deficient as well, since alcohol diminishes the absorption of this important mineral. Patients with diarrhea or those who have had gastrointestinal surgery may benefit from taking a zinc supplement as well.

The Recommended Daily Allowance set for this mineral is 15 mg for adult males and for pregnant women, and 12 mg for non-pregnant women. Be careful to avoid overdoses, however. Taking more than 100 mg of zinc daily over an extended time period can break down the immune system, instead of boosting it. Take a supplement that is formulated and balanced with other minerals, and is certified as pharmaceutical GMP compliant, to ensure rigorous quality controls standards have been adhered to.

© 2008 Copyright GiantDrug.com All Rights Reserved