What is zinc?

Zinc is an essential trace mineral, meaning that we need it to live but only in small amounts.

Why do we need zinc?

Zinc is required for the activity of many enzymes and contributes to many bodily functions, including:

Immune system

Zinc is critical for the development and function of immune cells (1).

DNA synthesis

Zinc is required for DNA synthesis, cell division, and protein synthesis (2).

Wound healing

Zinc is necessary for proper healing by playing a critical role in collagen synthesis and inflammatory response (3).

Recommended Daily Allowance for zinc

Recommended Daily Allowance for a 44-year-old male moderately active, weighting 70 kg and 175 cm tall is 11 mg and the Tolerable Upper Intake is 40 mg (4).

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Zinc deficiency

Zinc deficiency can be responsible for (5) :

• Growth retardation
• Loss of appetite
• Impaired immune function
• Hair loss
• Diarrhea
• Delayed sexual maturation
• Impotence
• Weight loss
• Delayed healing of wounds
• Taste abnormalities
• Mental lethargy

What are the risks of too much zinc?

Excess amounts of zinc are toxic and are associated with many adverse effects including (5) :

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal cramps
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Reduced immune function