Zinc Allows Acuity of Taste and SmellEssential Mineral Zinc may help prevent acne and regulate the activity of oil glands. This mineral is important in prostate gland function and the growth of the reproductive organs. It is required for protein synthesis and collagen formation, and promotes a healthy immune system and the healing of wounds. Zinc also allows acuity of taste and smell. It protects the liver from chemical damage and is vital for bone formation. It is a constituent of insulin and many vital enzymes, including the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD). It also helps to fight and prevent the formation of free radicals in other ways. A form of this essentail mineral called zinc monomethionine (zinc bound with amino acid methionine), sold under the trademark OptZinc, has been found to have antioxidant activity comparable to that of vitamin C , vitamin E , and beta-carotene. Sufficient intake and absorption of this mineral are needed to maintain the proper concentration of vitamin E in the blood. In addition, this essentail mineral increases the absorption of vitamin A . For optimum health, a proper 1 to 10 balance between copper and zinc levels should be maintained. A deficiency in zinc my result in:
Natural Food and Herbal Sources of ZincThis essential mineral is found in the following food sources:
Herbs that contain zinc include
Comments Zinc levels may be lowered by:
If you take zinc and iron supplements, take them at different times. If these two minerals are taken together, they interfere with each other's activity. Cautions Do not take a total of more than 100 milligrams of zinc daily. While daily doses under 100 milligrams enhance the immune response, doses of more than 100 milligrams can depress the immune system.
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