Zinc can be best described as a trace element that plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system. People suffering from a deficiency of zinc are susceptible to a high number of disease and illness attacks. This trace mineral is responsible for numerous body functionalities such as the stimulation of enzymes in the body. Our bodies require a small portion of zinc to function optimally. Men are advised to maintain an intake of about 8mg of zinc while for women its 11mg.
Zinc can be sourced from many foods and it also exists as a dietary supplement.
Interesting facts on zinc
Here are some key points about zinc.
- Zinc plays a vital role in nutrition.
- Lack of zinc can lead to an influx of disease and illness attacks while it may lead to growth impediment in children.
- Lactating mothers are advised to increase their consumption of zinc.
Benefits of adding zinc to your diet.
- Zinc helps the body’s immune system
- Zinc is used to treat conditions such as diarrhea – adding zinc vegan supplements to your diet will help the body fight diarrhea and prevent future effects of this condition.
- Zinc helps the brain form memories which help people learn new things easily.
- Zinc helps the body fight the flu and common colds.
- Zinc plays a vital role in the body’s self-healing process.
- Cosmetic products that have zinc traces are used to treat skin conditions and irritations.
- Adding zinc to our diet and supplementation reduces the effects and risks associated with inflammatory diseases.
- Zinc supplements can be used to contain and prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
- Zinc prevents vision loss.
Zinc can also help treat common conditions and illnesses such as acne, osteoporosis and pneumonia.
Recommended intake
Adequate zinc intake is especially important for children because even mild zinc deficiency can impede growth, increase the risk of infection, and increase the risk of diarrhea and respiratory disease.
Sources of zinc
The best sources of zinc are beans, animal meats, nuts, fish and other seafood, whole grain cereals, and dairy products. Zinc is also added to some breakfast cereals and other fortified foods. For vegans, you can try vegan supplements offered by body by nature.
Zinc deficiency
Normally, zinc deficiency is due to insufficient dietary intake. Common zinc deficiency signs and symptoms include:
- A loss or lack of appetite
- Anemia
- Prolonged healing process
- Prevalent attacks by skin conditions such as acne
- Depressed growth
- Depression
- Diarrhea and
- Hair loss
For expectant women, a zinc deficiency may result in a problematic or prolonged birth.
Precautions and side effects of zinc
This trace mineral has a wide array of health benefits, but when we consume it in excess, there are side effects. These side effects may manifest in the form of:
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- stomach pains
- headaches
- diarrhea
It is important to add this trace mineral to our diets. Check out the vegan supplements offered by Body by Nature to know which zinc supplement suits your needs.