Zinc is an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. Here are some key aspects of zinc and its uses in supplements, based on current authoritative sources:

Benefits and Uses

1. Immune Function: Zinc is vital for immune system performance. It helps fight off invading bacteria and viruses¹.

2. Wound Healing: Zinc is essential for healing wounds and maintaining healthy skin².

3. DNA and Protein Synthesis: It is needed for the production of DNA and proteins, which are fundamental for cell growth and repair².

4. Enzyme Function: Zinc acts as a catalyst in over 100 enzyme reactions, facilitating important biochemical processes³.

5. Growth and Development: During pregnancy, infancy, and childhood, zinc is crucial for proper growth and development¹.

6. Sense of Taste and Smell: It supports the proper functioning of taste and smell².

Deficiency Symptoms

Zinc deficiency can lead to various health issues, including:

• Growth retardation
• Hair loss
• Diarrhea
• Eye and skin lesions
• Impaired immune function
• Hypogonadism in males³⁴.

Sources of Zinc

Zinc can be obtained from a diet rich in:

• Red meat
• Poultry
• Seafood, especially oysters and herring
• Beans, nuts, and whole grains
• Dairy products⁵⁶.

Forms of Zinc Supplements

Zinc supplements are available in various forms, including:

• Zinc oxide
• Zinc acetate
• Zinc gluconate
• Zinc sulfate⁴.

Potential Adverse Effects

While zinc is generally well-tolerated when taken at recommended dosages, long-term high-dose zinc use can result in:

• Suppressed immune function
• Reduced levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
• Anemia
• Copper deficiency³.

Effectiveness for Specific Conditions

Scientific evidence supports the use of zinc for treating certain conditions, such as:

• Zinc deficiency
• Wilson disease
• Acute infantile diarrhea⁴.

However, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of zinc for preventing or treating the common cold, wound healing, or HIV⁴.

For more detailed information, refer to resources like the Office of Dietary Supplements, MedlinePlus, and Mayo Clinic.

Footnotes

1. Mayo Clinic ↩ ↩²

2. Office of Dietary Supplements ↩ ↩² ↩³

3. NCBI ↩ ↩² ↩³

4. MedlinePlus ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴

5. Mayo Clinic Zinc Supplement Precautions ↩

6. NCBI Review on Zinc ↩