Zinc Deficiency:
Depleting Your Immune System
Zinc deficiency is on the rise. If you were to ask a group of doctors, researchers or pharmaceutical company representatives, many would agree that the #1 nutritional deficiency in the U.S., if not the whole world, is the compound zinc. Why Do We Need It?Since it is found in every part of the human body but 90% of it is located within the muscles and bones, this is why zinc is especially important for young children to aid in height, weight, and normal bone development.Having sufficient levels of this mineral is also vital for a strong immune system. A zinc deficiency affects every cell of your body which results in them being unable to recognize and fight off infections such as a cold, the flu or a virus. Pneumonia or re-occurring diarrhea are also prevalent with low levels of zinc. Some Common Causes Of A Zinc ShortageAlthough it is very important because of its anti-viral and antiseptic properties, which enables it to fight off infections, it does not store well in our bodies. It is important therefore to get an on-going source either by food or supplements. It is especially helpful if daily intake is spread out at different intervals over each day.Some of the common reasons for zinc deficiency are: - gastro-intestinal malabsorption
- inadequate intake from food sources
- if iron and copper intake is high, zinc effectiveness is reduced
- body requires more during pregnancy and lactation
Symptoms Of A Shortage Of Zinc - hair loss
- skin lesions
- failing eyesight
- lack of taste in your taste buds
- slow or poor growth in children
- memory loss(or lack of clarity)
- unending symptoms of common cold, pneumonia or infections
Because deficiencies are commonly seen with hospital patients, it has been concluded that tissue repair and shorter hospital stays can be obtained from a zinc sulfate program. Common Food Sources Of ZincToday, through research, it has been concluded it is impossible to be healthy and have low levels of zinc in your body. Therefore the best foods are:- lean meats
- poultry
- soybeans
- whole grains
- nuts and seeds
- dried peas and lentils
- eggs
- shell fish or fish varieties
- oats
- pumpkin seeds
- ginger root
- peanuts and peanut butter
Therefore by increasing your ingestion of foods high in zinc and by maintaining the correct levels of Vitamin A, E, B6, along with the minerals magnesium, phosphorus and calcium, your body can effectively absorb more of this very important mineral. So by being sensitive to soybeans or having a soy allergy, this can lead to very low levels of zinc. Work with a nutritionist to set up a dietary program that effectively helps you to prevent zinc deficiency.
Return to "Soy Allergy" from "Zinc Deficiency"
Return to "Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency" from "Zinc Deficiency".
*Disclaimer*
This site is not intended to replace the advice and supervision of your professional medical treatment plan. Although all of the information is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge, we still recommend you carefully check all food labels before consuming any food product. We can not assume any legal responsibility for any illness obtained while following the advice contained on this site.
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