Zinc is a metallic chemical element ,, seen in almost all the cells, and is known as “essential trace element”. M any of us are unaware of just how vital zinc is in maintaining overall good health.
It is important for a healthy immune system, properly synthesizing DNA, promoting healthy growth during childhood, and healing wounds. Human body needs zinc to activate T lymphocytes (T cells). The T cells are important in controlling the immune responses. Zinc is necessary for the functioning of more than 300 different enzymes and plays a vital role in a large number of biological processes.
Having a low level of zinc decreases immunity and makes a person more susceptible to disease and illness. In fact, zinc deficiency is responsible for over 800,000 childhood deaths in the world every year.
Therapeutic Benefits
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Improves Immunity
Zinc controls immune system by regulating T lymphocytes, CD4 cells, natural killer cells, and interleukin-2. It is beneficial in reducing the duration and severity of the common cold in healthy people, and to give relief to allergies also.
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Anti Cancerous
It makes the body to fight against cancerous lesions.
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Treating diarrhea, mainly in kids
Many children with diarrhea can now be treated with zinc supplements and ORT
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Increases memory and concentration to learn
As Zinc has a crucial role in neuron communication, it controls and regulates memory and learning power.
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Healing wounds
It has the effect to treat and heal the wound both topically and internally.
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To treat and prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
It can prevent the cellular degeneration in the retina, and will delay the progress of the disease and loss of vision.
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Skin Care
It can prevent and treat acne and pimples on the skin.
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Detoxification and Rejuvenation
It is a cofactor for the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) and helps in the detoxification of the body.
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Infertility
Zinc plays an important role in male fertility and healthy sperm count. It also helps in improving Prostate health.
Normal daily recommended intakes in milligrams (mg) for zinc are generally defined as follows:
| Person | U.S (mg) | Canada (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Infants and children birth to 3 years of age | 5-10 | 2-4 |
| Children 4 to 6 years of age | 10 | 5 |
| Children 7 to 10 years of age | 10 | 7-9 |
| Adolescent and adult males | 15 | 9-12 |
| Adolescent and adult females | 12 | 9 |
| Pregnant females | 15 | 15 |
| Breast-feeding females | 16-19 | 15 |
Foods Rich In Zinc
Zinc is found in various foods, including lean red meats, seafood (especially herring and oysters), peas, and beans. Zinc is also found in whole grains, dark chocolates, pea nuts, pumpkin seeds etc.
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