Is one super nutrient zinc?

This mineral is present throughout our body. It is essential for important functions such as digestion, reproduction and growth. Zinc is linked to the performance of various body systems. The list of benefits attributed to him is long and sometimes ambitious zinc can actually fight infections and heal wounds.

It is found in every cell.

Zinc is present in all animal and plant cells. This component is required for the synthesis of DNA (genetic material) and regeneration of tissues, why is a key element for proper growth and development during childhood. Zinc is an essential component of over one hundred enzymes involved in digestion and utilization of fats, proteins and carbohydrates, and is closely related to energy production. Zinc also strengthens the immune system and, therefore, their potential to fight infection and heal wounds has attracted considerable interest.

A cure to fight infections?

Zinc is necessary for the development of T lymphocytes, white blood cells that attack viruses and bacteria harmful to our body, helping to fight infections. According to some studies, malnourished children with low levels of zinc supplementation taking this element undergo an increase in the number of T cells and reduced the severity and duration of infections.1 From this result, it has made a series of investigations for several years to find out whether treatment with zinc, such as pills and nasal sprays are an effective alternative therapy against the cold. In a recent analysis of four comprehensive, well-designed studies, found no therapeutic effect in tablets or nasal gels zinc.

Wound healing

Zinc supplements are useful in treating skin problems like leg ulcers, but only in those whose initial levels of zinc are low. The zinc-based ointments applied directly to the wound are more effective than supplements in reducing infection and stimulate healing. Today, zinc is an element common in acne creams and shampoos for scalp conditions for their properties cicatrizantes.

Zinc in the diet

Zinc is present in a wide variety of foods, so it is likely that a varied diet provides an adequate zinc intake. This is about 7 mg daily for women and 9 mg for men. However, since red meat is one of the best sources of zinc and hydrates found in plant foods reduce the absorption of zinc, vegetarians should be sure to include in your daily diet foods such as dairy products, eggs, whole grains, nuts and vegetables. Both pregnant and lactating women should take additional 2 mg per day to ensure an adequate supply for the baby, although the excess food they eat and ensuring that sum.
Excessive doses

Accidental consumption of doses over 200 mg of zinc is very dangerous and causes nausea and vomiting, while prolonged use of supplements may interfere with absorption of copper and iron. This is because copper, iron and zinc compete for using the same pathway to pass from the intestine into the bloodstream, so that excessive consumption of a mineral affects the absorption of others.

Optimal Consumption

In Europe, most people consume adequate levels of zinc through a balanced diet and do not usually need explicit suplements. 4 Symptoms of lack of zinc, as a poor child growth, impotence and skin lesions, are rare, but if there is the slightest suspicion of a lack of zinc is very important to seek medical advice. Generally, a balanced diet sufficient to provide all necessary nutrients and supplements are only useful if you do not get enough nutrients through food (e.g. in case of inadequate caloric intake, alcoholism, digestive diseases).