Zinc is an element needed by the body in order to grow. People who have low levels of zinc may experience delayed puberty, a loss of the senses of taste and smell, and may heal from wounds more slowly than others. People can get this vital nutrient from foods such as oysters, crab meat, tenderloin of pork and a variety of nuts and grains. Zinc supplements, available in liquid and tablet form, are used to correct a number of health conditions.
Promotes Growth
The Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), a branch of the National Institutes of Health, reports that children who have failure to thrive or sickle cell anemia may grow better by taking zinc supplements. Researchers from ODS state that these children often have trouble absorbing nutrients properly and do not grow normally due to a lack of vitamins and minerals, including zinc.
Boosts Immunity
A zinc deficiency may increase the risk of the common cold and other viral infections. Conversely, taking a zinc supplement or lozenge at the first sign of a cold may help curtail uncomfortable symptoms. Zinc can have a positive effect on skin wounds and help them heal more quickly, according to the ODS. Zinc is also given to children to treat diarrhea and is especially helpful to those in Third World countries, as reported by the World Health Organization.
Protects Vision
Zinc supplements may be used with a combination of antioxidant-rich vitamins to slow the negative effects of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Studies performed by the National Eye Institute showed that patients with AMD had a lower risk of developing advanced AMD after taking a daily dose of 80mg zinc oxide combined with large doses of vitamins E and C.
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