Supplemental zinc - a critical element for boosting immunity, wound healing and overall health

Studies have shown that zinc is important for natural killer cell (NK) growth and division. NK cells are the body's main defense against certain cancers.  Zinc also increases antibody response and T-cell counts. It has also been shown that zinc deficiency will cause the thymus to atrophy.

Who needs supplemental zinc?

According to U.S. Department of Agriculture surveys 73 percent of Americans don't get enough zinc.

• Vegetarians may need more zinc since plants generally absorb low amounts of zinc.
• There are indications that alcohol decreases absorption of zinc which may require supplemental zinc.

Signs of zinc deficiency

• growth retardation
• hair loss
• diarrhea
• impotence
• eye and skin lesions
• appetite loss

It should be noted that the above symptoms are not specific to zinc deficiency. They can be related  or associated with many other medical conditions as well. As always a doctor should always be consulted for medical diagnosis and treatment.

Unfortunately, very little research has been done on zinc. Too much zinc can cause as many problems as too little. However, 15 to 40 mg daily is the recommended daily amount but that can vary widely depending on age and current individual needs of the body. What is known is that zinc levels in the body are directly correlated to an individual's level of disease and infection. Zinc rich foods include: fortified breakfast cereals, buckwheat, beef, lamb, crab and oysters.