Zinc is a trace mineral that is found in oysters, cheese, whole-grain pastas and breads, peanuts, lima beans, red meat and sunflower seeds. It is also widely available in supplement form in the United States. Second to iron, zinc is the most common mineral in the human body, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The recommended daily intake of zinc is 11 mg for male adults and 9 mg for female adults.
Acne
Zinc may reduce the severity and frequency of acne outbreaks. This mineral helps regulate the production of sebum, a type of oil that can clog pores and cause acne lesions, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Zinc is also necessary for the production of collagen, a component of skin tissue. This may speed the healing of acne lesions and reduce the appearance of scar tissue.
Immune System Function
Your immune system is responsible for warding off fungal, bacterial and viral infections. Zinc may improve immune system response, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It may help reduce the severity of cold symptoms and speed recovery from the common cold. It may also help prevent infections in people with AIDS. However, zinc may only boost immune system function if you already have a deficiency of this mineral.
Hyperglycemia Control
Zinc is essential for the production of insulin by the pancreas, according to Balch. Insulin is a substance that aids in the transport of glucose to the cells for energy and repair, preventing glucose from accumulating in the bloodstream. Enhanced insulin production may reduce hyperglycemia symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, fatigue and poor cognitive performance. Proper insulin production may also reduce your risk of diabetes-related kidney disease.
Antioxidant Protection
Zinc is an antioxidant that may help prevent cellular damage, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Antioxidants inhibit the ability of unstable free radical molecules to attack and damage healthy cells by depriving these molecules of oxygen. Zinc's antioxidant properties may also help protect you against heart disease.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Zinc
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., et al.; 2010
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