Zinc is an essential component of the body and is an important constituent of the cells. It is a vital element to activate the function of several enzymes in the body that play important roles in different metabolic activities of the body. Plus, it plays a major role in wound healing, building up the immune system of the body, and is needed in DNA synthesis. Among its many functions, zinc supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, and is an indispensible component in sperm development, ovulation, and fertilization. Although the benefits of zinc vitamins are immense, taking too many zinc supplements is not good for health either. Certain studies have revealed that taking too much zinc (more than 50 gm daily) can lead to improper copper metabolism, reduction of HDL which is good cholesterol, can reduce immune functions, and alter the iron function in the body. If you are eating a healthy and well balanced diet, you wouldn’t need any additional zinc vitamin supplements. If you are planning to add vitamin zinc supplements to your diet, consult your dietician or ask your physician for advice. To learn more about different health benefits of zinc vitamins, keep reading through the next sections.
Benefits Of Zinc Vitamin
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Zinc along with vitamin A is useful to maintain healthy skin.
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Zinc is essential for sperm formation in men. Zinc deficiency in men may lead to impotency. It has been found that zinc supplements help boosting sperm production and help eliminate sexual dysfunction in men.
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Zinc is also useful to treat patients suffering from diarrhea.
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The element helps reduce the rate of muscle degeneration due to aging.
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Zinc is needed for insulin to maintain the blood sugar level in the body.
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Deficiency of zinc may lead to partial loss of the sense of smell and taste. The protein responsible for these functions works properly in presence of adequate amount of zinc in the blood.
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Zinc supplements are prescribed by doctors to treat patients with digestive disorders like crohn’s disease, sprue, and short bowel syndrome.
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Patients who have undergone a gastrointestinal surgery are often prescribed zinc vitamin supplements to boost the overall immunity and for speedy recovery.
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Some studies have revealed that zinc is particularly beneficial for treating cold. Zinc lozenges are particularly effective in gaining relief from cold.
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Zinc plays a vital role in the development of a child. Children, who lack zinc vitamin in their diets, can be affected by dwarfism. Sexual development is also poor in these children.
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Zinc deficiency in pregnant women can slow down the growth rate of the fetus. Breastfeeding mothers should also be provided with zinc vitamin supplements to compensate the loss of cellular zinc through lactation.
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The recommended dose of vitamin zinc supplement for women is 12 mg while for men it is 15 mg.
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Consult your physician and ask for guidance before starting on any zinc vitamin supplements.
Food Sources Rich In Zinc
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Beef
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Lamb
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Pork
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Chicken
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Lobsters
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Salmon
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Clams
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Dairy products
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Milk
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Cheese
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Yeast
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Beans
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Wholegrain cereals
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Pumpkin seeds
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Whole wheat bread
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Potatoes
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Yogurt
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Peanuts
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Beans