WHAT IS ZINC?
Zinc is an essential micronutrient that’s needed for numerous functions in your body. Zinc is naturally found in a wide variety of both plant and animal foods. It’s important for a strong immune system and helps keep your skin, eyes, and heart healthy.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ZINC?
Research shows that zinc has numerous health benefits, including:
- Immune System Health - Zinc helps keep your immune system strong. Because it is necessary for immune cell function and cell signaling, a deficiency can lead to a weakened immune response. Review of seven studies demonstrated that 80 – 92 mg per day of zinc may reduce the length of the common cold by up to 33% Therefore, Zinc supplements stimulate particular immune cells and reduce oxidative stress. In addition, Zinc supplements significantly reduce the risk of infections and promote immune response in older adults.
- Decreases Inflammation - Zinc decreases oxidative stress and reduces levels of certain inflammatory proteins in your body. Oxidative stress leads to chronic inflammation, a contributing factor in a wide array of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer and mental decline. In a study in 40 older adults, those who took 45 mg of zinc per day experienced greater reductions in inflammatory markers than a placebo group.
- Reduce Age-Related Diseases - Zinc may significantly reduce your risk of age-related diseases, such as pneumonia, infection and age-related macular degeneration. Zinc may relieve oxidative stress and improve immune response by boosting the activity of T-cells and natural killer cells, which help protect your body from infection. Older adults who supplement with zinc experience improved influenza vaccination response, reduced risk of pneumonia and boosted mental performance. In one study determined that 45 mg per day of zinc may decrease infection rates in older adults by nearly 66%. Additionally, in a large study in over 4,200 people, taking daily antioxidant supplements — vitamin E, vitamin C and beta-carotene — plus 80 mg of zinc decreased vision loss and significantly reduced the risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration.
