The Importance of Zinc in The Body

Zinc is an essential mineral that stimulates the activity of about 100 enzymes in the body. It also:

  • Supports your healthy immune system
  • is necessary to synthesize DNA
  • Is essential for wound healing
  • Supports the healthy growth and development of the body during adolescent, childhood and pregnancy

Though the actual amount of zinc necessary to support the human body is quite small, its effects on the body are astronomical.

Zinc Deficiencies

Generally, when someone is suffering from a zinc deficiency, it is because the intake is inadequate, because it is being poorly absorbed into the body or their need for zinc increases.

A zinc deficiency can be identified by:

  • Growth retardation
  • Diarrohea
  • Hair loss
  • Delayed sexual maturation and impotence
  • Loss of appetite
  • Eye and skin lesions
  • White spots on the fingernails

Because many of these symptoms are general and can be associated with so many medical conditions, you should consult with your doctor if you are suffering from any or a combination of these symptoms.

Zinc and the Human Body

In an average human body, there is about 2 to 3 grams of zinc. Most of this is found in the muscle tissue and the bone. Generally, most adults do not require zinc supplementation if they eat a healthy diet with vegetables, fruit and some protein sources.

Males require more zinc than women, as the mineral is released when a man ejaculates. The more sexually active a male, the more zinc that is required, as semen has the highest levels of zinc in the body.