In Nutrition, there are macronutrients(energy giving nutrients like carbohydrates) and micronutrients which do not give energy but are involved in several biochemical processes in the body to deliver energy, vitality and virility to the human body. One of such micronutrients is zinc.
Now this is not the zinc used for the roof of your house, no, it is a biochemical component found in foods. It is vital in several processes in the body like;
Male Reproduction : zinc is a critical mineral for robust testosterone levels. Zinc deficiency in men impairs testosterone production, puts them at risk for developing prostate cancer and causes infertility. Inadequate zinc has been linked to low libido.
Female Reproduction. In women zinc is involved in the growth process if the oocyte or egg. Zinc deficiency in women impedes ovulation causing infertility. Adequate zinc allows women to use estrogen and progesterone efficiently.
Enhances Immune System : low zinc intake produces a direct and rapid decline in T cell function. T cells elevate the bofy's immune system during infections.
Protects Cardiovascular System : low zinc can cause a deficiency in endothelial (blood vessels) barrier, which leads to high cholesterol build up and inflammation. Cholesterol and inflammation increases your risk of heart disease.
Prevents Diabetes : zinc is necessary for proper function of most hormones including insulin, which is the hormones that reduces blood glucose level in the blood by converting and storing them as glycogen. Zinc binds to insulin. So that insulin is adequately stored in the pancreas and released when glucose enters the blood stream. Zinc helps insulin bind to the cell and enables glucose transport into the cells from the blood. If cells are resistant to insulin, glucose will stay in the blood stream causing high blood sugar(hyperglycaemia). When zinc concentration falls, there is reduction in insulin secretion and peripheral insulin insensitivity which can lead to diabetes if it continues.
Powerful Antioxidant : zinc is an excellent antioxidant that gets rid of free radicals which cause damage to cells in the body by bonding with them and neutralising them. Zinc targets free radicals that cause inflammation and us especially effective at detoxifying heavy metals from the brain. The progression of neurodegeneration and Alzheimer's is enhanced by heavy metal build up in the brain. Zinc can help rid of those toxins while maintaining health of the brain. In ridding the body of oxidants and toxins, zinc helps to prevent cancer; prostate, colon, breast, ovaries, lungs, skin, blood.
Dietary Sources of zinc include : oysters, crab, oats, wheat bran(from whole wheat), broccoli, asparagus, zucchini, spinach, pumpkin seeds(ugu seeds), groundnuts, cashew nuts, almond nuts, watermelon seeds, lamb, beef, yoghurt.
Whatever you eat.
Do Eat Responsibly!
