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Zinc benefits and contraindications
October 17, 2023
Among the numerous benefits attributed to zinc is its active role in the vitality of cells and the immune system.
On the other hand, the most common contraindications associated with an excess of zinc are anemia and drowsiness.
Let's see the main benefits and contraindications of this trace element, which is so important for health.
Table of contents
Zinc benefits and functions
Zinc, contraindications
How to take zinc
Zinc benefits and functions
Consuming the correct daily amount of zinc, either through diet or special supplements, is very important. As one of the most important trace elements, it acts as a cofactor for over 300 enzymes and 1000 transcription factors.
In addition, it interacts with numerous ligands, is involved in RNA and transducer metabolism, DNA replication and protein biosynthesis processes.
What role does zinc play in the immune system?
The immune system is the system responsible for protecting the organism from external pathogenic threats.
It consists of a complex system of cells and biological processes whose proper functioning depends on a variety of factors.
Among the factors that can strengthen the immune defense is the amount of zinc in the body: this mineral, which occurs naturally in small quantities in the human body, has numerous positive effects on the balance of biological functions, including the functioning of the immune system.
Due to its properties, zinc is a crucial element for numerous reactions in cellular metabolism and performs a primary function in the vitality of cells, especially those that need to reproduce quickly, such as those that are part of the immune system.
Specifically, a sufficient amount of zinc in the organism promotes the correct functioning of the thymus, an organ responsible for the maturation of T lymphocytes, a group of leukocytes essential for cellular immunity.
Consequently, zinc makes the immune system more efficient, especially against influenza viruses and bacterial infections, and is recommended for treating cold symptoms or mild respiratory illnesses.
Zinc, contraindications
Taking zinc beyond recommended dosages may cause some unwanted side effects, including anemia, drowsiness, irritability, dizziness, decrease in HDL cholesterol levels, and nausea and vomiting.
Side effects of zinc
An excess of zinc can also disrupt the metabolism of copper and iron, reduce the number of white blood cells and harm the immune system by also lowering the levels of good cholesterol (HDL), which has negative effects on the heart and some pancreatic enzymes.
That's why it's important not to exceed recommended dosages and to always consult a doctor for certain illnesses or health conditions.
Zinc deficiency and its effects
Zinc deficiency, as discovered in 1961 (1), can lead to malnutrition problems.
The need for zinc is higher in pregnant and breastfeeding women, children, infants and adolescents. In fact, zinc deficiency during growth can cause problems in the gastrointestinal tract as well as the central nervous system, immune system, skeletal system and reproductive system.
Therefore, in these conditions it is advisable to specifically supplement the diet in order to strengthen the body.
How to take zinc
Since the body is unable to create its own reserves that it can fall back on in the event of deficiency symptoms, it is important to ensure an adequate daily zinc intake through the diet.
Meeting your daily needs for this nutrient is quite easy as it is found in many common foods, such as meat, legumes, seafood and, to a lesser extent, dairy products and grains.
Zinc deficiency, which can depend on both diet and the use of antidepressants or diuretics, can manifest itself in various forms, some milder (fatigue and sleepiness), others more serious, including a weakened immune system.