Beneficial Effects Of Zinc

For the healthy functioning of the body, zinc is necessary. It is essential for a healthy and glowing skin, and to increase body resistance against infectious diseases.

Functions of Zinc

Zinc plays an important role in cell division and growth. It is essential for protein and DNA synthesis.

Zinc helps in liver function and proper insulin activity.

Zinc is essential for proper functioning of the sexual organs. Zinc is found in abundance in semen and the prostrate gland. Sexually active men require more zinc than women for the health of the reproductive organs and fertility.

Zinc is a component of many enzymes that help in the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates and proteins.

Zinc helps in wound healing.

Healthy Skin with Zinc

Zinc supplements are essential for healthy glowing skin. Zinc sulphate and zinc gluconate help in preventing and reducing acne. Zinc supplements reduce skin inflammations, reduce hormonal ill effects on the skin and heal blemishes. Zinc has a soothing effect on skin and gives immediate relief.

Zinc oxide acts as an astringent and drying agent. It is used to relieve itching and diaper rash in babies. Zinc sulphate lotions prove effective in skin burns, irritations and surgical incisions.

Zinc is an excellent sunscreen. Applying sunscreen lotions containing zinc helps protect skin from harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Zinc has also been found beneficial to cure chapped lips.

According to reports, zinc has been found to be effective in curing psoriasis but it is not proved safe yet. Zinc pyrithionine is an active ingredient in dandruff shampoos and is found to be very effective.

Zinc Deficiency

Zinc deficiency occurs due to insufficient intake of zinc and improper zinc absorption into the body. Zinc deficiency causes hair loss, memory loss, skin problems and weakness in body muscle. Insufficient intake of zinc during pregnancy causes stunted brain development of the fetus. Infertility in men is seen who are deficient in zinc. Congenital diseases like Acrodermatitis enteropathica occur due to zinc deficiency.

Zinc Toxicity

According to OTC drug products, zinc between 0.1 to 0.25 percent is safe. Excessive zinc intake can lead to suppression of copper and iron absorption.

Recommended Dietary Allowance for Zinc

According to the latest recommendations by the Institute of Medicine, an average male need 11 mg of zinc daily while an average female needs 9mg of zinc. During pregnancy and lactation, the female needs 13mg to 14 mg of zinc daily. Infants from 7months to 3years need 3mg, 4to 8 years need 5mg and children from 9 to 13 years need 8mg of zinc daily.

Zinc Rich Foods

Beef, pork, chicken, breakfast cereal, nuts like roasted peanuts, almonds, walnuts, diary products like yogurt, cheese and oat meal are rich in zinc.