Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral that is vital for many functions in the body.

Why do you need Zinc?

Zinc is such an important mineral, yet it is probably one of the most deficient minerals in the general population.

It is essential for:

Cellular metabolism
Protein synthesis
Alcohol metabolism
Involved with the activity of ~100 enzymes
Healthy immune function
Regulation of Vitamin A levels in the blood
Aids in the production of collagen
DNA synthesis
Wound healing
Prostate health
Normal sexual development

Conditions Related to Zinc Deficiency

Psoriasis
Dry Skin
Type of Anemia
Pre-eclampsia
Post-natal depression
Pre-menstrual syndrome
Stress
Anxiety
Depression
Chronic Illness
White spots on fingernails
Delay in wound healing
Gastrointestinal disorders
Macular degeneration
Heart Disease
Prostate Enlargement

Dosages

Zinc, being a trace mineral, is considered a micronutrient. However, the amount required for normal body function is higher than typical amounts of trace minerals. Since there is no means of storing excess zinc in the body for later usage, the required daily intake is established so as to maintain a constant amount of available zinc in the body. As with all trace minerals, it is best taken in combination with the other trace minerals.

Dosages of zinc range from 30 mg. – 200 mg. per day, with the lower range more typical and the higher amounts in the therapeutic range.

Occasionally dosages as high as 300 mg. have been used, but caution is advised with dosages in this high range as it has been shown to suppress primary immunity in young healthy adults.

Toxicity

Zinc is a safe trace mineral as toxicity is difficult to induce. Research has shown that therapeutic doses of zinc are safe up to about 500 mg. daily. However, the higher therapeutic range can have some side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, dizziness, difficulty writing and walking, and some types of anemia.

Often, the cause of these side effects is related to an imbalance between zinc and copper.

Zinc and copper are a symbiotic duo and are in balance in a 10 to 1 mg. ratio respectively. An imbalance of these two minerals can lead to anemia because together they affect the regulation of blood cells in the body. It is important to note that dosages at a higher range for a period of weeks or months could provoke a copper deficiency.

In the case of either zinc or copper, balance is the key.

Typically, daily doses of 50 mg. to perhaps 100 mg. will correct any zinc deficiency. Doses at these levels may be maintained safely for an indefinite period of time.

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