Acid! Alkaline: Acid-forming
What is Zinc?
Zinc was was first recognized as an element in the early 1500’s; but it was not found to be an important one until 1869, when it proved to be necessary for the growth of molds. By 1877, zinc had been isolated from the human liver. In 1934, scientists determined that it was an essential element for rats and mice; but it was not until 1974 that zinc was given a RDA. To date, researchers have found more than 200 zinc-dependent enzymes in the human body, which is more than all the other mineral-dependent enzymes combined.
Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in every cell in our body. It stimulates the activity of about 100 enzymes, substances that promote biochemical reactions in your body. It fuels everything from manufacturing DNA, wound healing, maintaining a strong immune system, to fighting colds, flu’s, and other infections.
Uses and Benefits of Zinc
- Enhances immune system and thymus.
- Protects against birth defects.
- Helps prevent and lessen duration of colds, flu’s, and infections.
- Involved in many enzyme systems and in the synthesis of nucleic acid (DNA and RNA), so it is directly related to growth and repair of the body. Brain, genital organs, thyroid, liver and kidneys.
- Effects transfer of carbon dioxide from tissue to lungs.
- Constituent of digestive enzyme for hydrolysis of proteins.
- Aids in healing wounds.
- Studies have proven its importance in brain function and in the treatment of schizophrenia.
- Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence, and helps sperm develop and is needed for ovulation and fertilization.
Recommended Dosage of Zinc
The Recommended Dosage for Zinc are :-
- Men – 15 mg.
- Women – 15 mg.
- Pregnant women – 30 mg.
Deficiency Symptoms of Zinc
Loss of appetite, poor skin color and appearance, white spots on fingernails, slow wound healing, infertility, diabetes, loss of taste, poor night vision, birth defects, stretch marks, behavioral disturbances, failure of the testes or ovaries to develop, and dwarfism. Chronic diarrhea, diabetes and kidney disease are prone to zinc deficiency.
Rich Food Sources of Zinc
Pumpkin seeds, seaweed (c.a. kelp and dulse, etc.), nuts, green leafy vegetables, mushrooms, onions, wheat germ pecans, poultry, pumpkin seeds, sardines, seafood, soy lecithin, soybeans, sunflower seeds.
Useful References