|
Zinc UsesThere are many zinc uses dictated by a desire for good health. So if you have arrived at this page as a geologist or other physical scientist don’t run away. Learn about the need for many elements including zinc element in the proper form in your body. Zinc facts include: • trace mineral • essential for manufacturing proteins and nucleic acids (DNA - genetic material of cells) • involved in action of insulin in utilization of carbohydrates • helps absorption of B complex vitamins • depleted in soils – hence supplementation important • helps production of testosterone – among other things adequate testosterone levels support male sex drive • helps protect immune system • it is the synergistic effect of micronutrients that is so important – Vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, E and folic acid and the trace elements copper, selenium, iron, and zinc work together to support protective properties of immune cells Br J Nutr 2007 • these are a few of the zinc benefits to humans Forms Forms include zinc citrate (the best supplemental form) zinc sulfate, zinc acetate, zinc aspartate, zinc orotate and others. RDA • Adults 11 mg/day • Teens 8 - 11 mg/day • Children 1-4 years 3 mg/day; 4+ years 5 mg/day
As Zinc Citrate: • Adults 20 mg/day • Teens 12 mg/day • Children 1-4 years 5 mg/day; 4+ years 10 mg/day
Basically non-toxic, however prolonged high doses (2+ g/day) have produced zinc side effects; some prolonged doses over 100 mg/day reduced HDL cholesterol and increased LDL cholesterol – normally you want to do the reverse of this – increase the good cholesterol (HDL) and reduce the bad cholesterol (LDL).
You will find lots more information, including full citations and summaries of studies from medical journals in my book It’s About Health. But you can also continue to surf the 200 free pages of this website for lots of valuable, evidence-based information.
It’s About Health
|
