Zinc Gummies (Natural Blueberry) - 100 Gummies

Earl Mindell put it best in his book, The Vitamin Bible, when he wrote in the chapter ZincSupplements, “The mineral zinc acts like a traffic policeman, directing and overseeing the efficient flow of bodily processes (and) the maintenance of enzyme systems and cells”. The specific term used is "coenzyme", which means that zinc is a helper in many of the natural chemical processes that occur every day in your body, and without which those same processes cannot occur.

This explains why zinc is beneficial for so many body functions. And considering that soils have become depleted, taking a zinc supplement is essential these days to avoid health concerns associated with zinc deficiency. But what does this important mineral actually do that gives it such a well-deserved reputation for optimizing health? 

What Zinc Does For The Body

It is especially important in the prostate gland where supplemental zinc has been shown to decrease prostate inflammation; Zinc concentrates in the reproductive glands where it aids in normal fetal development and sperm maturation. Zinc is also a regulator of the immune system ensuring that cells for identifying and killing microbes, viruses and cancerous cells are in good working order. Zinc is a cofactor for the antioxidant system superoxide dismutase (SOD). Antioxidants neutralize free radicals. They are unstable molecules that in their bid to become more stable must bump into healthy cells and cause damage. Zinc also speeds wound healing and is used for the healing of burns and surgical incisions. Zinc is involved in the sensory organs, the eyes, nose and taste buds.

One of the first signs of zinc deficiency can be altered taste and smell. Zinc regulates the activity of insulin, for blood sugar control, thyroid hormone, for metabolism and the digestion of sugar and protein. Natural health practitioners use zinc for a variety of health concerns including; acne, benign prostatic hyperplasia, colds, flus, diabetes, diaper rash, stomach ulcers, macular degeneration, impotence, osteoporosis, eczema and wound healing.

Foods High in Zinc

Soil depletion is such a common phenomenon today that many people are deficient not just in zinc, but many other essential minerals. However, considering that organic farming is becoming more widely used, soils are once again becoming enriched with trace nutrients, albeit slowly. Foods that are high in zinc:

- Seeds, especially pumpkin seeds
- Nuts, especially Brazil nuts
- Seafood, especially shellfish
- Mushroom, in particular shitake mushrooms
- Whole Grains, such as quinoa and brown rice

Zinc levels are decreased by diarrhea, kidney disease, liver disease, alcoholism and diabetes. Zinc is not absorbed well when it is consumed with fibre, phytates (found in grains and legumes), hard water, calcium, and iron, so it's best to use it at least two hours away from any of those mentioned.  Zinc is lost through perspiration so supplementation may be helpful for athletes, those who live in hot climates and those who regularly use saunas or steam rooms. Zinc is depleted by the following medications: oral contraceptives, some diuretics, ulcer medications, antiviral medication and some antibiotics. Much of our food is deficient in zinc due to poor soil levels of the mineral. Food processing techniques destroy zinc.