Zinc

Zinc is a transition metal which occurs as a hard and brittle blue-white shiny substance. Zinc is an essential trace element found throughout the body, supporting the immune system, metabolic function and wound healing among other functions.

Zinc provides many health benefits via catalytic, structural and regulatory reactions. Low Zinc levels can adversely impact the ageing process in both men and women and cause skin problems such as acne. Without zinc you could suffer from hair loss, digestive problems, weak immunity, slow wound healing, appetite changes.

It stabilises the structure of proteins and supports catalytic activity of many enzymes (it is needed to support activity of over 200 enzymes), in particular antioxidant enzymes such as Superoxide dismutase (SOD).

Atomic number 30

Atomic mass 65.4

Zinc is found in red meat, shellfish, dairy products, seeds and grains.

A 150 gram serving of beef steak contains 12 mg zinc.

The recommended daily intake of Zinc is 8 mg for women and 11 mg for men.

Benefits:

1. Acts as an antioxidant that helps to fight free-radical damage.
2. Slows the ageing process.
3. Helps to process carbohydrates, fat and protein in our food.
4. Strengthens hair and improves cuticles.
5. Vital for a healthy immune system.

Did you know…

Zinc oxide is combined with iron oxide to make calamine lotion, a traditional medicine which has been used for centuries to treat skin problems such as eczema or skin burns and even nappy-rash.

EFSA claims

1. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal skin.
2. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal hair.
3. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal nails.
4. Zinc contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress
5. Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system.
6. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.
7. Zinc contributes to normal DNA synthesis.
8. Zinc contributes to normal acid-base metabolism.
9. Zinc contributes to normal carbohydrate metabolism.
10. Zinc contributes to normal cognitive function.
11. Zinc contributes to normal fertility and reproduction.
12. Zinc contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism.
13. Zinc contributes to normal metabolism of fatty acids.
14. Zinc contributes to normal metabolism of vitamin A.
15. Zinc contributes to normal protein synthesis.
16. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood.
17. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal vision.
18. Zinc has a role in the process of cell division.