Most people are familiar with vitamins but surprisingly not everyone knows about minerals. Popular ones often discussed are calcium and magnesium. An important mineral that doesn’t seem to get enough attention is zinc. There are many biochemical pathways in the body that require a variety of nutrients to function properly. Without them, we can develop health problems. One of these nutrients is zinc.
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that is found in foods like oysters, red meat, chicken, pumpkin seeds, wheat germ, spinach, nuts, shellfish and some cheeses. It it necessary for many important functions in the body including:
Enzyme function– DNA synthesis, neurotransmitter metabolism, free radical deactivation, metabolism of many hormones.
Structure and function of proteins– cell growth and signaling
Antioxidant Function
It is used in prevention and therapy for:
Eye disease
Trauma, burns, surgery
Infectious disease
Growth in childhood
Male fertility
Skin diseases
Heavy alcohol intake
Rheumatic diseases
Interesting mental health fact: zinc can be a very effective supplement in helping with Anxiety disorders.
Zinc can easily be depleted in the body through high sugar intake, exercise and stress.
Are you wondering if you are deficient in this important mineral? Come into my office and find out. During your first visit I will perform a zinc taste test and you can find out right away.