View source for Zinc

{{bl| Zinc }}{{ct| Med }}

=== Zinc ===
'''Alternate Names:''' Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Gluconate, Zinc Citrate

==== Chart of Uses: ====
{| class="wikitable"
!'''Use'''
!'''Description'''
!'''Index'''
|-
|Immune System Support
|Zinc plays a critical role in immune function, helping to fight off infections and reduce inflammation
|{{ct|ImmuneSystemSupport}}
|-
|Wound Healing
|Zinc is essential for the body's ability to heal wounds, as it supports cell growth and regeneration
|{{ct|WoundHealing}}
|-
|Skin Health
|Zinc is often used to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties
|{{ct|SkinHealth}}
|-
|Cognitive Function
|Zinc supports brain function, and deficiencies can lead to cognitive impairments, including memory and attention issues
|{{ct|CognitiveFunction}}
|-
|Hormonal Health
|Zinc supports hormonal balance, particularly testosterone production, and may aid in reproductive health
|{{ct|HormonalHealth}}
|}
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==== Warnings: ====

# '''Excessive Intake:''' High doses of zinc can interfere with the absorption of other minerals, such as copper, and may lead to toxicity, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
# '''Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:''' While zinc is vital during pregnancy, high doses should be avoided, as it can harm fetal development. Always consult a healthcare provider for dosing recommendations.
# '''Kidney Disease:''' Individuals with kidney disease should be cautious with zinc supplementation, as excessive amounts can accumulate and lead to toxicity.
# '''Interaction with Medications:''' Zinc can interfere with certain medications, including antibiotics and diuretics. Consult a healthcare provider before combining zinc with medications.
# '''Stomach Irritation:''' Zinc supplements can cause stomach upset, nausea, or an unpleasant taste when taken on an empty stomach.

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==== Active Compounds: ====

# '''Zinc (Zn):''' The primary active compound, zinc is an essential mineral that is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body, including DNA synthesis, protein production, and immune system function.
# '''Zinc Enzymes:''' Zinc is a component of numerous enzymes involved in digestion, metabolism, and nerve function.
# '''Zinc in Protein Synthesis:''' Zinc plays a key role in protein synthesis and cell division, which is essential for tissue repair and wound healing.
# '''Zinc in Antioxidant Enzymes:''' Zinc is a part of enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), which helps protect cells from oxidative damage.

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==== Natural Sources: ====

# '''Red Meat:''' Beef, lamb, and pork are rich sources of bioavailable zinc.
# '''Shellfish:''' Oysters, crab, and lobster contain particularly high amounts of zinc.
# '''Poultry:''' Chicken and turkey also provide good amounts of zinc.
# '''Legumes:''' Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are plant-based sources of zinc, though they contain phytates that can reduce zinc absorption.
# '''Nuts and Seeds:''' Pumpkin seeds, cashews, and sunflower seeds are excellent plant-based sources of zinc.
# '''Whole Grains:''' Whole wheat, quinoa, and oats provide moderate amounts of zinc.
# '''Dairy Products:''' Milk, cheese, and yogurt contain zinc in bioavailable forms.
# '''Vegetables:''' While zinc is present in some vegetables, such as spinach and mushrooms, the bioavailability is lower than in animal products.
# '''Fortified Foods:''' Breakfast cereals and other fortified foods may be enriched with zinc to help boost intake.

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