Healing, immune response, and metabolic function are just a few of zinc’s essential processes! Zinc follows iron as the most abundant trace mineral in the body, and is required by every single cell in your body!
Zinc assists many functions in the body, and immunity is one of the most important! As we navigate colder seasons and circulating bugs, remember to keep zinc close by for its immune-strengthening benefits. In this article, we’ll explain how zinc works, how much we need, and we’ll cover the best zinc supplements you can buy!
Table of Contents
Importance of Zinc
Because we don’t naturally produce this vital mineral, we need to obtain it through the food we eat each day. And when we say “need” — we mean it! Your whole body needs zinc in order to function. It works deep in our cells to support a variety of processes. Here are a few!
Wound Healing:
Zinc promotes collagen production by stimulating protein activity. With higher collagen levels, cells are able to remodel tissue for quicker wound healing.
Digestion and Metabolism:
Digestive enzymes assist our bodies’ ability to digest food and utilize all of its nutrients. Zinc plays an important role in the production of 24 enzymes that allow for easier digestion and better metabolic function.
Immune Response:
Because zinc works on the cellular level, it helps assist the development and communication between immune cells. You’ll find zinc in most immunity supplements because it maintains a strong immune response by protecting tissue and fighting off invaders.
In fact, this trace mineral has been the subject of many studies proving its efficacy in fighting off common illnesses. Research has even shown that zinc can quickly improve your conditions when you’re experiencing lower respiratory tract infections.
Zinc Deficiency Symptoms and Causes
Zinc deficiency impacts nearly two billion people worldwide. While this number is large, it is mostly uncommon to experience zinc deficiency in America and other developed countries.
Unfortunately, low zinc levels can result in numerous health issues. Growing babies and children might develop more slowly, and men may experience impotence. Additionally, collagen production and tissue growth might decrease and carbohydrate metabolism can be reduced.
The most common sign of zinc deficiency is weakened immune function. In fact, zinc deficiency is responsible for around 16% of the world’s respiratory tract infections as well as an increased risk for catching pneumonia and other lung infections.
A deficiency in zinc might also cause:
- Skin sores and injuries
- Slow wound healing
- Eye discomfort
- Uncontrolled weight loss
- New hair loss
- Difficulty focusing
- Weakened taste and smell
- Decreased appetite
- Bowel issues such as diarrhea
The symptoms of zinc deficiency are numerous, and the immune system usually takes the brunt. Fortunately, we can maintain healthy skin, fight off common illnesses, and strengthen immunity with zinc supplements!
How Much Zinc Per Day Do I Need?
This depends on your age, sex, and condition. Review this guide below by the National Institutes of Health for the amount of zinc you need each day:
- 0-6 months: 2 milligrams
- 7 months-3 years: 3 milligrams
- 4-8 years: 5 milligrams
- 9-13 years: 8 milligrams
- Male teenagers and adults: 11 milligrams
- Female 14-18 years: 9 milligrams
- Female adults: 8 milligrams
- Pregnant teenagers: 12 milligrams
- Breastfeeding teenagers: 13 milligrams
- Pregnant adults: 11 milligrams
- Breastfeeding adults: 12 milligrams
Keep in mind that too much zinc can lead to health issues. If you begin experiencing symptoms like headaches, abdominal pain, or nausea and vomiting, you could be consuming more zinc than you need.
Best Zinc Supplements for Immune Support
Pure Encapsulations Zinc Liquid
Liquid supplements are the easiest supplements to absorb! That means a daily dose of this will quickly reach your bloodstream so you can experience a healthy boost to your immunity.
Benefits of Pure Encapsulations Zinc Liquid:
- Enhances collagen production
- Stimulates metabolic function
- Promotes digestive health
- Encourages easier absorption of vitamin B
Review its tested ingredients below:
- Zinc gluconate
- Apple juice concentrate
- Cranberry juice concentrate
- Potassium sorbate
- Citric acid
- Water
- Stevia leaf extract
Recommended Intake:
Take 4 ml with a meal daily (for adults) and 2 ml (for children 4 years or above) with a meal daily.
Pure Encapsulations Zinc 30
Not sure you want to take a liquid supplement? Zinc 30 offers a powerful amount of zinc in a convenient capsule! It strengthens immunity, boosts digestion, and promotes easy absorption of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Here are a few more of its amazing benefits:
- Preserves reproductive health
- Encourages healthy tissue
- Supports fetal growth
- Maintains a healthy prostate
The following ingredients make up this daily zinc supplement:
- Zinc picolinate
- Ascorbyl Palmitate
- Vegetarian capsule
- Hypoallergenic plant fiber
Recommended Intake:
Take one capsule with a meal daily.
Zinc for Strong Immune Protection
Zinc doesn’t just help our immune systems, it is needed for immune function! Plus, wound healing, digestion, and metabolism reap its benefits too. Zinc supplements are the best complement to a healthy diet and regular exercise and will help you stay protected against common illnesses.
Be sure to include a powerful zinc supplement in your daily routine for a stronger immune system. Browse a health food store and find the best zinc supplements for you!