Zinc: The magic mineral

Zinc is among the most talked about health and skin benefitting micronutrients in town right now. Naturally occurring powerful mineral zinc is a key ingredient to overall bodily health.

Essential mineral zinc performs healthy cell metabolism, optimises the immune system and acts smartly as a common cold fighter. Zinc also helps the body protein synthesis and wound healing process. The functions of zinc include antioxidant activity.

Trace mineral zinc acts as a co-factor for certain enzymes involved in the effective functioning of the antioxidant defence system. It helps protect against the oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Several studies find a strong correlation between low serum zinc levels and severe COVID-19. COVID-19 patients showed significantly lower zinc levels when compared to healthy controls.

Are you aiming to improve the skin's well-being? Your skin needs the mineral zinc to stay moisturised and healthy. One of the best-known minerals for skin and hair health is zinc. Zinc mineral works as an ultraviolet (UV) protective filter, that protects your skin from UV damage. Zinc oxide is present in nano form in a variety of hair and skincare products. Support your immune sSystem with zinc fortified food and supplements with antiviral properties. Oral zinc sulphate supplementation (10mg/kg/day) is an adjuvant therapy of viral wart.

Zinc pyrithione is an active ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoo. Zinc pyrithione containing shampoo is intended to kill dandruff-causing fungi that live on the scalp. Zinc helps control sebum production, it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. You can take it orally and also use topically in your acne-fighting arsenal. Zinc oxide paste is the ideal diaper rash protectant. It soothes your baby's sensitive skin and gives it a barrier effect.

The micronutrient zinc is naturally found in many food sources such as fish, oyster, mushroom, whole grain cereals, and dairy products. In general, nuts, beans and seeds are good choices because they have zinc. lobster is delicious food that is rich in zinc.

Our body needs only a very small amount zinc each day. Adequate daily intake of zinc is 11 mg for men and 8 mg for women. Poor dietary intake, ageing process, inadequate absorption, increased loss are responsible for zinc deficiency.

Eating foods rich in zinc and incorporating a supplement into your diet may harmonise the issue. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or following a plant-based diet require extra zinc. However, as always, check with a doctor before using a supplement.