Zinc
Zinc is one of the trace elements in our body.The trace element zinc has a number of important functions in the body: 1 It is necessary to maintain the stability of cell membranes.2 Participates in energy conversions and is an element necessary for maintaining proper body weight.3 We need it for the proper functioning of the skin and mucous membranes, as well as for the perception of taste and smell.4 Necessary for normal development and cell division.5 Participates in blood clotting processes.6 Influences learning and memory processes.7 Participates in the formation and maturation of spermatozoa in men.8 Essential for bone building..
Signs of Zinc deficiency
Zinc deficiency in infants and children can lead to stunted growth, delayed psychomotor development, and puberty.Various skin lesions, alopecia and nail disease, decreased appetite, and diarrhea may occur.Symptoms of zinc deficiency in adults include 1 skin lesions and other dermatological conditions, 2 thyroid and liver disease, 3 impaired wound healing and immunity, 4 taste and odor disorders, 5 hair loss and chicken blindness.Zinc deficiency may also be one of the causes of folic acid deficiency and associated anemia.Zinc deficiency is also often observed in people who abuse alcohol..
Signs of Zinc excess
Excessive consumption of zinc leads to impaired immune response, negatively affects the metabolism of iron, copper and lipid metabolism (reduces the concentration of so-called \"good cholesterol\").Overdose is manifested by symptoms such as: 1 abdominal pain, 2 nausea and vomiting, 3 diarrhea, 4 weakness, 5 decreased appetite, 6 headaches..
Main sources of Zinc in nutrition
Foods with the highest zinc content: wheat bran, veal liver, beef, lamb, pork, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds.
Which foods are sources of Zinc
Interesting fact
The average human body stores between 2 and 4 g of zinc.Most of it, i.e. about 85-90%, is in bones and muscles, and the remaining amount is in other tissues or body .The need for zinc depends on age: it increases during periods of increased growth and development, as well as during pregnancy and breastfeeding.