A2Z Vitamin And Herbs Guide For Natural Care And Healing

Zinc

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace mineral, which is almost as abundant as iron in the human body.

Zinc can be found in the brain, pancreas and adrenal glands. Zinc is present in all cells, specifically in the nucleus.

Nutritionist and doctors have long known that Zinc is important for a healthy immune system. Scientist has proven that zinc can be an effective treatment for colds. Studies also show that zinc cuts the duration of cold symptoms in half. Although this might not work on everybody, thousands of Americans believe in the healing wonders of zinc and its ability to cure colds and flu.

Not only is Zinc good for the immune system and clearing up colds, it is also important in healing wounds. In fact, if you look at the labels, you will see most wound healing ointments contain zinc. Not only that, zinc also improves male reproductive health and is needed to maintain our overall health well being.

Zinc also contains antioxidants, which help the body maintain its defenses against cell damage, which is particularly important for aging people, people with cancer, people exposed to the sun’s harmful rays and others with equally serious diseases. It is also essential in the development of the reproductive organs, prostate functions and male hormone activity.

Zinc also has a property known to cure protatitis or inflammation of the prostate glands as well as recurrent herpes infections. It also aids in the contractility of the muscles as well as for blood stability. It maintains the body alkaline balance; helps in the normal tissue function. It also assists in the phosphorus digestion and metabolism.

Zinc has no known therapeutics properties except that it is being used as an ingredient for topical medication. Zinc when used as a supplement reduces acute diarrhea and depressed immunity. Oral zinc ointments can cure idiopathic skin lesions. It is useful in rehabilitation therapy on malnutrition and malabsorption, as well as for feeding programs for premature infants and neonates.

We can get zinc from red and white meat, as well as shellfish, (especially oysters), beef and peanuts. Human milk contains zinc, which is more absorbable than cow’s milk. Soybeans bind with zinc to form an insoluble complex that lowers bioavailability. Fiber is also a known inhibitor of zinc.

Most people should make sure they get enough zinc everyday, but please check with your doctor before adding any supplements to your or your childrens diets.. Infants are recommended to take 5mg per day, children below 10 years old should take 10mg per day; males above 10 years is 15 mg per day; females above 10 years 12 mg per day; pregnancy, 15 mg per day and lactating moms, 0-6 months 19 mg per day; 7-12 months 16 mg per day.

Excessive zinc intake can cause short illnesses. Zinc toxicity can happen with ingestion of acidic food or drink that is in galvanized containers. Symptoms include nausea and vomiting, dizziness, distress and headache.