Zinc is found in over 200 enzymes and hormones in mankind. It is a natural element found in all plants and animals, and is widely available in over-the-counter vitamin supplements.
Problems Associated with Zinc Deficiency
Zinc deficiency is a recognised health problem. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of zinc is l5mg for a male adult, a figure that is easily met by a balanced diet containing meat and vegetables. However, certain people require more zinc than others; pregnant and lactating women for example, may need as much as l9mg a day. The average elderly person's intake is only about 9mg a day due to the fact that food consumption, especially of proteins, is often reduced and so that person may need to take a zinc supplement.
Zinc is essential for growth. It is used to control the enzymes that operate and renew the cells in our bodies. The formation of DNA, the basis of all life on our planet, would not be possible without zinc.
Getting a Diet Rich in Zinc
The best sources of zinc are lean red meats, liver and certain seafoods (especially oysters). Significant amounts are also found in nuts, cereals, rice and dairy products. Food processing techniques, such as stripping and bleaching grains to remove their husks, reduces zinc bio-availability as well as other nutrients; freezing or canning fruits and vegetables has a similar effect. Cooking can also deplete zinc content.
The body absorbs zinc more readily from different sources, meat being a particular good source in this respect. Phytate, found in grains and other fibre-rich foods, binds with zinc and therefore reduces absorption as can alcohol.
Zinc Use for Skin Health and Care
Zinc and zinc compounds are of major importance in skin care. Some of its vital uses are:
- To soothe nappy (diaper) rash and itching thanks to its astringent and drying properties.
- As a sun-block to protect the skin from the sun's harmful rays.
- As an effective treatment for acne.
- In the relief of cold sore symptoms.
- To aid the healing of wounds, like surgical incisions, burns and other skin irritations. Many adhesive plasters contain zinc oxide for this reason.
- As an anti-inflammatory to relieve the discomfort from sunburn, blisters and gum disease.
- As an insect repellent.
- Helping to protect body tissue from damage by stimulating the transport of Vitamin A from the liver to the skin,
- As bactericides in high quality cosmetics and toiletries.
- To help heal leg ulcers through addition to the diet.
Benefits of Zinc Use for Colds and Infections
Zinc gluconate lozenges, taken at the first sign of a common cold, reduce duration and symptom severity by 42% according to a 1992 study. Zinc, an antiviral agent and astringent, is released into the saliva, relieving cough, nasal drainage and congestion. Besides shortening the duration of cold symptoms, zinc also soothes a rough, sore throat on contact.
Zinc Use in Eating Disorders
Since the connection was first made in 1979, the role of zinc in treating such eating disorders as anorexia nervosa and bulimia continues to intrigue researchers. Reduced intake of zinc plus an inability to store it in the body can lead to prolonged abnormal eating behaviours.
Many hospitalised anorexics, who often diet to fatal extremes are zinc deficient - 60% according to a study at the University of Kentucky. The same was true for 40% of bulimic patients. Loss of appetite resulting from too-little zinc for the anorexic is devastating - excessive weight loss, mental dysfunction, thinning hair; dermatitis, and difficulty fighting infection. Using Zinc supplements may be of benefit from those suffering from abnormal appetite or eating disorders.
Source:
World Health Organisation website
The International Zinc Association
