Zinc & the Immune System

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a very important role in human health. From maintaining cellular metabolism, gene expression and boosting the immune system, zinc is a critical mineral to be supplementing. With flu season ahead of us due to changing of seasons and lack of immune support, zinc can be an extremely beneficial element to utilize.

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Orthomolecular stated that, “Reacted Zinc provides 54 mg of highly absorbed zinc, ideally formulated using the amino acid chelate form of zinc (zinc glycinate) for enhanced absorption, optimal utilization and gastrointestinal comfort.” Zinc is crucial to the physiological processes of immune function, insulin signaling, tissue repair, vision and neuro-transmission. It is one of the top minerals worldwide that most individuals lack, becoming a crucial deficiency issue and impacting 2 billion people in developing nations. Due to the wide range of benefits, a zinc deficiency can be detrimental to the health of an individual, leading to many serious health implications. Daily intake of zinc is essential in order to be receiving the proper amount as there is no zinc storage system.

Inferior Minerals

No mineral is created equal, and while there may be other zinc supplements on the market, cheap, poorly absorbed minerals are far too common. Orthomolecular reveals that, “Reacted Zinc is formulated with the superior amino acid chelate form, zinc glycinate, which does not ionize in the gut and therefore is not impacted by dietary factors and is absorbed at a higher rate than those formulated with zinc forms.” If a cheap supplement is not improving the body’s zinc or not revealing any noticeable changes, there is no reason to ingest it.

Immune Function

Immune health is detrimental to overcoming any illness, whether it be a seasonal cold or cancer. With even a small zinc deficiency, the body’s immune function is impacted and can slow down its activity of macrophages, neutrophils, natural killer cells and complement activity. This, in turn, creates a below average immune system, making just the smallest of colds more difficult for the body to maintain and correct. Low zinc levels mess with the body’s homeostasis, creating further challenges for the immune system. Remember, supplementation simply allows for the balance of nutrient and mineral levels, bringing the body back to homeostasis and correcting the deficiencies.

Tissue Growth

Zinc plays a role in maintaining the elasticity and integrity of the skin and the mucosal membranes. Patients who exhibit skin weakness or fragile skin may be suffering from low zinc levels. It is important to notice one’s body and its weaknesses in order to respond to its deficiencies.

Eye Health

Research shows that zinc and antioxidants health support eye health, especially with those suffering from age-related loss of visual activity or general visual decline. Zinc prevents free radical cellular damage in the retina, thus supporting visual health in the elderly and those with vision impairment.

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