Zinc is an essential mineral necessary for all forms of life. It is found naturally in some foods, added to others and can be found in supplement form. Citric acid is a weak acid found in citrus fruits. Not to be confused with ascorbic acid -- vitamin C -- citric acid is a natural preservative and used to add a sour taste to foods and soft drinks.
Zinc
Zinc is involved in numerous aspects of cellular metabolism and plays an important role in growth and development, the immune response, neurological function and reproduction. In cell metabolism, zinc has catalytic, structural and regulatory roles. Nearly 100 enzymes depend on zinc to catalyze vital reactions. It is an important component of protein and cell membrane structures and influences hormone release and nerve impulse transmission.
Citric Acid
Citric acid serves a key role in cellular metabolism. It is an important intermediate in the citric acid cycle that produces energy. Citric acid also serves as a safe cleaning agent and acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Effects of Citric Acid on Zinc
According to the "Journal of Nutrition," citric acid may increase zinc absorption by acting as a zinc-binding ligand in human milk. Zinc complexes of picolate and citric acid were used to supplement a zinc-deficient diet in rats. The study showed there was a slightly better utilization of zinc with the citric acid supplementation. However, in vivo studies showed no significant effect on the intestinal absorption of zinc after the addition of picolinic or citric acid.
Zinc RDA and Deficiencies
The recommended dietary allowance -- RDA -- of zinc for healthy men and women over the age of 18 is 11 mg per day and 8 mg per day, respectively. The Linus Pauling Institute states that mild zinc deficiencies contribute to impaired physical and neuropsychological development and increased susceptibility to infection in children. Severe zinc deficiency includes slowing or complete cessation of growth and development, delayed sexual maturation, impaired wound healing, clouding of the corneas, impaired sense of taste, diminished appetite, skin rashes, severe chronic diarrhea, night blindness and behavioral disturbances.
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