Zinc Benefits Health (By Jodi M)

When you think of things that are good for your body and good for your health, has zinc ever crossed your mind? Probably not, but believe it or not there are many zinc health benefits that help to build and strengthen immune system functions.

Zinc is an important mineral, essential for protein synthesis and the regulation of production of cells in the immune system. Zinc is mainly found in the muscles, but it can also be found in red and white blood cells, the retina of the eye, bones, skin, pancreas, liver, and kidneys. There are more than 300 enzymes in the human body that require some amounts of zinc for normal functioning.

Zinc does many different things for your body. It is essential for protein synthesis and regulates immune system cell production. Zinc acts as a catalyst in chemical reactions for nearly 100 different enzymes. It also plays a role in immune resistance, digestion, reproduction, physical growth, diabetes control, appetite, stress level, taste and smell.

Zinc also functions as an antioxidant and is involved in many complex biochemical reactions such as enzymatic function, carbohydrate metabolism and protein synthesis. It is unbelievable that an element such as zinc (about .3% the size of a penny), rarely talked about, could help with so many life sustaining processes.

The recommended daily allowance for zinc is only 11 mg a day for adult men, and 8 mg a day for adult females. So don’t over do it with your zinc supplements because consuming too much can actually make you susceptible to catching a cold. Experiments show that 300 mg or more will hinder the immune system, however the recommended limit is 40 mg per day for a normal adult.

As you search for the best sources to get the needed levels of zinc, there are many foods to consider that are excellent sources of these zinc health benefits. High-protein foods contain lots of zinc. If you are a vegetarian good sources include dairy products, beans and lentils, peanuts, seeds and wholegrain breakfast cereals. Red meat and poultry also provide good sources of zinc. Unfortunately, while fruits and vegetables are great for your body in many ways, they are not good sources of zinc. Also, dietary fiber can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb zinc. Zinc can also be found in certain immune boosters and other supplements.