Health Benefits
of Zinc Supplements

Before discussing the health benefits of zinc supplements, let’s review a few things about zinc itself. Along with calcium and iron, zinc is one of the most important minerals for your body.

Why?

Zinc helps your body make insulin, the hormone that controls glucose in the blood. Low zinc puts you at risk of diabetes.

Zinc also aids in the elimination of toxins and is an immune system fortifier. It activates white blood cells to fight infection and prevent colds.

Men: Every time you have an orgasm, you lose a lot of zinc. Sperm and the prostate gland contain a high concentration of zinc.

Men and women: You lose a significant amount of zinc when you sweat.

Zinc Deficiency

Many vegetarians experience zinc deficiency because of their high grain diet. A lack of zinc exacerbates all kinds of conditions:

• acne

• dulling of the senses (taste, smell)

• fingernail deterioration

• impotence

• prostate trouble

Absorption of vitamin A and vitamin E decreases without zinc.

Foods High in Zinc

To get more zinc from your diet, eat these regularly:

• beef tenderloin

• lamb loin

• venison

• sesame seeds

• pumpkin seeds

Grains and legumes contain phytates, which bind with zinc and prevent absorption. So eat these foods in moderation.

Zinc in a Supplement

Take zinc separately from iron; they interfere with each other. Also, do not take more than 100 mg of zinc daily. It will have the opposite effect and actually weaken your immune system.

The most absorbable form is zinc chelate. Zinc is one of the most abundant trace minerals in the human body, yet it's often included in a multi-nutrient supplement.

If you take prescription meds or daily OTC drugs, consult your doctor about possible harmful interactions. Also, pregnant and nursing women should avoid supplements to protect the baby's health.