ZINC- HEALTH BENEFITS
The adult body
contains about two to three grams of zinc. It is found in organs, tissues,
bones, fluids, and cells. Foods with high protein content, specifically animal
protein, are major sources of zinc in the human diet. Zinc can also be used as
fortification for other foods as well. Nearly half of the world's population is
at risk for inadequate zinc intake. The article reviewed numerous studies that
showed a relationship between zinc and vital human physiological processes such
as the following: Beef, lamp, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, lentils, beans,
cashews are main zinc containing foods
Brain: The blood zinc level is less in patients
with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease In a rodent study, it was observed
that zinc behaves like an antidepressant
Cardiovascular System: Zinc performs a noteworthy role in the
regulation of arterial blood pressure. Males and females were reported to
metabolize zinc differently when suffering from hypertension
Liver: Zinc deficiency in the liver occurs not only
in those with liver cirrhosis, but also in less advanced alcoholic and
nonalcoholic liver disease
Pregnancy: A mild deficiency of zinc during a pregnancy
can cause increased maternal morbidity, abnormal taste sensation, prolonged
gestation, inefficient labor, atonic bleeding, and an increased risk to fetuses
Diabetes: Zinc is very important in the synthesis, storage,
and secretion of insulin . A low level of zinc has been shown to play a role in
diabetics with associated disease conditions such as coronary artery disease
and several related risk factors including hypertension, and elevated levels of
triglycerides
Endocrine System: Studies show a correlation between zinc
deficiency in geriatric patients and reduced activity of the thymus gland and
thymic hormones, decreased response to vaccinations, and reduced immunity
Healing: Zinc deficiency has been linked with delayed
wound healing, and has been found to be crucial to the healing of gastric
ulcers especially at the early stage
Pneumonia: Zinc may shorten the duration of severe
pneumonia and time in the hospital
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