ZINC AND IT'S IMPORTANCE FOR HEALTH
ZINC AND IT'S IMPORTANCE FOR HEALTH
Zinc is an trace mineral
It is needed for immunity system proper functioning and plays role in cell division, cell growth, hormone production, wound healing and carbohydrates breakdown. Besides this it is needed for senses of smell and taste and enhances the action of insulin
For growth and development during pregnancy, infancy and childhood zinc is required.
It may reduce the risk of common cold if taken regularly for 5 month( Recent study)
Animal protein e.g. Beef, pork and Lamb other good sources are nuts, grains, legumes and yeast. Fruits and vegetables are not good source of zinc.
It is a supplement of multivitamins in the form of Zinc gluconate, Zinc sulphate or Zinc acetate.
Sign and symptoms of deficiency
Note:(Deficiency is more common in vegetarian than non vegetarian)
Frequent infection
Hypogonadism in males
Loss of hairs
Poor appetite
Skin sore
Slow growth
Sense of smell and Taste problem
Poor wound healing
If taken in excess may cause abdominal cramps, Diarrhea and vomiting along with deficiency of Copper or iron
Weight gain or weight loss
Nerve dysfunction.
Increase risk of Infertility
Increase risk of Diabetes
Zinc requirements: It varies in different age group
Infant:
0-6 months: 2 milligrams/day
7-12 months: 3 milligrams/day
Children:
1-3 years: 3 milligrams/day
4-8 years: 5 milligrams/day
9 -13 years: 8 milligrams/day
Adolescents and adults:
Males age 14 and over: 11 milligrams/day
Females age 14 to 18 years: 9 milligrams/day
Females age 19 and over: 8 milligrams/day