Chronic headaches can be debilitating, and while there are many over-the-counter medications available that help to limit the pain, they do not cure the problem. Taking zinc might help to cure the underlying problem so that the headaches do not recur.
Zinc
According to Dr. Weil's Vitamin Advisor, zinc is found in all foods and is important for many biological processes, including boosting immunity and helping the body heal wounds. Zinc deficiency can lead to loss of appetite, depression and lethargy. A proper diet of lean meats, fruits and vegetables should provide zinc in proper amounts, but you can supplement your diet with minerals if necessary. For most adults, 15 mg of zinc daily will suffice, but vegetarians should get 30 mg.
Deficiency
According to Analytical Labs Research Inc., a deficiency in zinc can lead to copper toxicity, which leads to migraine headaches. Research has shown that copper imbalance is actually quite common. Zinc deficiency is measured as anything below a six-to-one ratio of zinc to copper. A normal range is eight to one. Taking zinc in the form of pills might help to correct any imbalance and prevent future migraines.
Cures
According to Health 911, many people take painkillers to cure headache but they only lessen the pain and can lead to more serious health problems down the line. A better strategy is to find the underlying cause of the headache and work to correct it. A zinc deficiency can cause headaches that might be corrected with zinc supplementation. Additionally, zinc might help lessen the duration of a cold if taken when symptoms are first recognized.
Foods
Many animal foods provide zinc, including beef, eggs and oysters. Plant foods such as whole grains, legumes and nuts also are recognized as quality sources of zinc. Vegetarians whose diets do not include these foods might need to supplement their diet with zinc pills to ensure that they do not acquire a zinc deficiency. Dairy, caffeine and alcohol in large doses might interfere with zinc absorption and lead to a deficiency as well.
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