What is Zinc?

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for many bodily functions, including immune function, wound healing, and the sense of taste and smell. It is found in many different foods, including red meat, poultry, seafood, and legumes.

History

Zinc has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. It was first recognized as an essential nutrient in the early 20th century, and its importance for immune function and wound healing was discovered in the mid-20th century.

Pharmacology

Zinc is absorbed in the small intestine and is regulated by several hormones, including insulin and testosterone. Excess zinc is excreted in the urine and feces. Zinc supplements come in many different forms, including zinc gluconate and zinc citrate.

Chemistry

Zinc is a chemical element with the symbol Zn and atomic number 30. It has a bluish-white color and is a relatively soft metal. It is not found in its pure form in nature but is commonly found in rocks and minerals.

Effects: Positive and Negative

Positive Effects:

1. Immune function: Zinc is essential for immune function and can help prevent infections and promote wound healing.
2. Sense of taste and smell: Zinc is necessary for the sense of taste and smell.
3. Skin health: Zinc may help improve skin health and may be beneficial for people with acne or eczema.
4. Fertility: Zinc is necessary for male fertility and may help improve sperm quality.

Negative Effects:

1. Nausea and vomiting: High doses of zinc supplements may cause nausea and vomiting.
2. Diarrhea: High doses of zinc supplements may cause diarrhea or other gastrointestinal issues.
3. Copper deficiency: High doses of zinc supplements may interfere with copper absorption and lead to copper deficiency.

Supplements to Boost

Zinc supplements are available over the counter and can be taken in the form of tablets, capsules, or lozenges. Zinc supplements should be taken with food to improve absorption, and it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking them to ensure that they are safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Warnings

It is possible to get too much zinc, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, and other health problems. The recommended daily intake of zinc for adults is 8-11 mg, depending on gender and age. Zinc supplements should not be taken in excess of this amount without the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Zinc is an essential mineral that is necessary for many bodily functions, including immune function, wound healing, and the sense of taste and smell. While zinc supplements can be helpful for some people, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking them to ensure that they are safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

References

1. National Institutes of Health. Zinc: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-HealthProfessional/. Accessed April 22, 2023.

2. Wessels I, Maywald M, Rink L. Zinc as a Gatekeeper of Immune Function. Nutrients. 2017;9(12):1286.

3. Karaman M, Karakus N, Caglar GS, Karakus E, Cicek E. Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review. Dermatol Ther. 2020;33(6):e14477.

4. Wong WY, Flik G, Groenen PM, et al. The impact of calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper in blood and seminal plasma on semen parameters in men. Reprod Toxicol. 2001;15(2):131-136.

5. National Institutes of Health. Zinc: Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet.