Zinc, a vital mineral, is necessary for a vast array of body functions, including:
- DNA and RNA synthesis
- Immune function
- Production and activation of more than 200 enzymes, including digestive enzymes
- Sexual Development
- Absorption of other nutrients
- Brain development and function
- Wound healing
Zinc is known to be deficient in many of us, especially those with Depression, Post Natal Depression and pyrrole disorder (in conjunction with B6). As it competes with Copper for absorption, a systemic excess of Copper will mean a likely deficiency of Zinc. Excess of Cadmium, Mercury or Aluminium will have similar effects.
Not all Zincs are created equal; like all minerals, some forms are absorbable and usable within our body systems, and some are not, creating a heavy metal problem when stored in the body. Different body systems or biochemical pathways within the body then utilise each absorbable form. For this reason, it is best to test Zinc status first and get advice on which form you need.
In the past, you may have decided to take a Zinc supplement, believing you are deficient. If you felt nauseous after taking it: you were either not low, you may have taken it away from food, or it was in the wrong form.
When we refer to forms of Zinc, we are not referring to whether it is liquid, powder, tablet, or capsule. We are referring to the ideal forms of Zinc being the chelated forms:
- Zinc gluconate
- Zinc citrate
- Zinc picolinate
- Zinc orotate
- Zinc acetate
With all nutrients, avoiding deficiency is always better than correction, while not always possible. We can, however, offset the deficit through our daily dietary intake of Zinc rich foods in their purest forms, as found in:
- Red meat
- Egg yolks
- Ginger
- Oysters
- Pumpkin and Sunflower Seeds
- Lentils, Nuts and Legumes: e.g. kidney beans, cashews
Zinc is not just a magic immune booster nutrient; it is a key team player in your health and vital to your well-being.
Zinc right for your health!
