Zinc benefits
You may think of taking zinc when you have a cold or flu, however, did you know that all your cells need zinc on a daily basis?
The adult body contains approximately 2.0 to 3.0 g of zinc, mostly stored inside your cells. Zinc has far reaching actions which affect the health of the whole body.
Are Your Zinc Levels Low?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, your zinc levels may be low:
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Recurring colds, flus and/or infections
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Poor appetite, reduced sense of taste and/or smell
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Sluggish digestion
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Slow growth and development
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Slow healing, acne, hair loss, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and other skin conditions
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Infertility
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Sugar cravings
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Stress, anxiety, and depression
The Secret of Zinc Deficiency
Zinc is often a mineral that is forgotten about or ignored. Many people are deficient in zinc and don’t realise how important it really is. Low zinc foods in the diet, or a diet high in sugar or alcohol plus heavy sweating are common causes of zinc deficiency.
A Simple Taste Test
Your Naturopath can do a simple taste test to determine if you have a zinc deficiency. The test involves holding a zinc solution in your mouth for 10 seconds and assessing your taste response. The test relies on the presence of the saliva enzyme gustin, a zinc dependant enzyme. A lack of zinc reduces the activity of gustin, thus altering your taste perception.
Nourishing Your Body’s Immunity from A to Zinc
Zinc protects your cells from free radical damage, providing antioxidant defence. Zinc’s actions include supporting healthy immunity, and improving appetite and digestive function. Its ability to increase the healing rate of acne and wounds makes it indispensable for skin health.
Zinc also plays a key role in blood sugar metabolism, for greater blood sugar control. Zinc aids growth and development, and is an important nutrient during pregnancy for both mother and baby. Zinc is also important for male health, fertility and sperm production, increasing sperm motility and concentration, enhancing the chances of conception.
Zinc and the beneficial properties for Your Memory
Zinc is found in high concentrations in the hippocampus area of the brain which controls thought and memory. Recent research has shown zinc to be good for the brain, reducing stress and having a positive impact on mental function and mood.
You Don’t Just Have to Eat Oysters!
You can top up your zinc levels by increasing the intake of zinc rich foods:
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Oysters are a rich source of zinc, but if you are not a fan
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Beef, pork, chicken and lamb all contain zinc
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Non-animal sources of zinc include nuts, whole grains, legumes, yeast and ginger
If you need more zinc, talk to me about coming in and doing the Zinc Taste Test. That way you will know for sure if you need to top up your zinc levels, or if you have enough…only the through Absorption Taste Test will you know how much you will need.
Taking a highly absorbable zinc supplement along with diet is important. The more zinc your body can absorb, the greater the benefits are for improving your health.
Also read: 7 Top Tips to treat Acne naturally