41 Amazing Health Benefits of Zinc

Zinc has so many health benefits that it’s almost impossible to cover them all in one post. This mineral has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects; it’s essential for immunity, reproduction, mental health, skin health, cognitive function, and so much more! Read on to learn the amazing benefits of zinc. Zinc is an essential mineral found in all organs, tissues, and fluids in the body [ 1 ]. As the second most abundant trace mineral in the body after iron , it plays a pivotal role in a variety of biological processes [ 2 , 3 ]. Zinc is required for the catalytic activity of more than 300 enzymes involved in the synthesis and metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, nucleic acids, and other nutrients [ 4 ]. Zinc also plays roles in stabilizing cell and organ structures, immune function, wound healing, cell division, growth, blood clotting, thyroid function, vision, taste, smell, and more [ 5 ]. Despite having such critical functions, it is not stored in the body and requires a regular dietary intake [ 6 ]. Good dietary sources of zinc include [ 7 ]: Red meat Seafood Dairy products Nuts Legumes Whole grains However, zinc is more easily absorbed from meat and animal proteins. Vegetables are not ideal sources because they contain phytate , a compound in plants that prevents zinc from being absorbed [ 8 ]. Because it plays such a critical role in the immune system, zinc deficiency contributes significantly to the global burden of disease, making it a major public health issue [ 9 , 10 ]. Groups at risk for zinc deficiency include [ 11 , 12 ]: People with digestive disorders Vegetarians Pregnant and lactating women Alcoholics People with sickle cell disease Health Benefits of Zinc The benefits of optimal dietary zinc intake […]

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