Zinc
OTHER NAME(S):
Acétate de Zinc, Acexamate de Zinc, Aspartate de Zinc, Atomic Number 30, Chelated Zinc, Chlorure de Zinc, Citrate de Zinc, Gluconate de Zinc, Méthionine de Zinc, Monométhionine de Zinc, Numéro Atomique 30, Orotate de Zinc, Oxyde de Zinc, Picolinate de Zinc, Pyrithione de Zinc, Sulfate de Zinc, Zinc Acetate, Zinc Acetate Hydrate, Zinc Acetylmethionate, Zinc Acexamate, Zinc Aspartate, Zinc carbobenzoxy-beta-alanyltaurinate , Zinc Chelate, Zinc Chloride, Zinc Citrate, Zinc Difumarate Hydrate, Zinc Gluconate, Zinc Glycinate, Zinc Methionine, Zinc Monomethionine, Zinc Murakab, Zinc Nicotinate, Zinc Orotate, Zinc Oxide, Zinc Picolinate, Zinc Pyrithione, Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Sulphate, Zincum Aceticum, Zincum Gluconicum, Zincum Metallicum, Zincum Valerianicum, Zn
Zinc:
Zinc is a chemical element with the symbol Zn and atomic number 30. It is a bluish-white, lustrous metal that is found in group 12 of the periodic table. Zinc is a relatively abundant element, and it is commonly used in a wide variety of applications due to its unique properties.
Zinc is an essential mineral that is necessary for the proper function of many enzymes in the body. It is involved in a wide range of biological processes, including cell division, protein synthesis, and immune function. Zinc is also important for the development and function of the brain and nervous system.
In industry, zinc is primarily used as a coating for iron and steel to protect against corrosion. It is also used in the production of brass and other alloys, as well as in the manufacture of various chemicals, such as zinc oxide and zinc sulfate. Zinc is also used in batteries, sunscreen, and dietary supplements.
However, excessive intake of zinc can be toxic, and long-term exposure to high levels of zinc can lead to a variety of health problems. Symptoms of zinc toxicity include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, as well as neurological symptoms such as tremors and seizures.
Uses:
Zinc is a versatile element that has a wide range of uses in different fields. Here are some of the common uses of zinc:
Galvanizing: Zinc is widely used in galvanizing steel and iron to prevent corrosion. The zinc coating acts as a sacrificial anode that protects the underlying metal from rusting and corrosion.
Alloying: Zinc is used as an alloying element in the production of various alloys, such as brass, bronze, and nickel silver. These alloys are used in the manufacture of a wide range of products, including pipes, fittings, valves, and musical instruments.
Chemicals: Zinc is used in the production of various chemicals, such as zinc oxide, zinc sulfate, and zinc chloride. These chemicals are used in a wide range of industries, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
Dietary supplements: Zinc is an essential mineral that is required for various bodily functions. It is used in the production of dietary supplements that are used to treat zinc deficiency and support immune function.
Batteries: Zinc is used in the production of batteries, such as zinc-carbon batteries and alkaline batteries. These batteries are used in a wide range of applications, including flashlights, remote controls, and toys.
Sunscreen: Zinc oxide is used as an active ingredient in sunscreens due to its ability to absorb UV rays and protect the skin from sunburn.
Construction: Zinc is used in construction materials, such as roofing, gutters, and downspouts. Zinc is preferred in roofing because it is lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion.
Overall, the uses of zinc are diverse and range from industrial to medical applications.
Precautions:
While zinc is generally safe when taken in recommended doses, there are some precautions you should take when using zinc supplements. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind:
Talk to your doctor: Before taking zinc supplements, talk to your doctor to determine whether they are necessary for your health and to discuss the appropriate dosage.
Follow the recommended dosage: Stick to the recommended dosage of zinc supplements. Taking too much zinc can be toxic and cause a range of side effects.
Be cautious with zinc nasal sprays: Zinc nasal sprays have been linked to a loss of sense of smell. The FDA recommends that people avoid using zinc nasal sprays.
Don’t take zinc on an empty stomach: Zinc supplements can cause stomach upset, so it’s best to take them with food.
Be careful with zinc and antibiotics: Zinc can interfere with the absorption of antibiotics, so it’s best to take zinc supplements at least 2 hours before or after taking antibiotics.
Avoid long-term use of high-dose zinc supplements: Long-term use of high-dose zinc supplements can interfere with the absorption of other minerals, such as copper and iron, and can lead to deficiencies.
Be aware of interactions with other medications: Zinc supplements can interact with certain medications, including diuretics, penicillamine, and tetracycline antibiotics. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any potential interactions.
Overall, it’s important to be cautious when taking zinc supplements and to talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks.
Dosing:
The recommended daily intake of zinc varies depending on age, sex, and other factors. Here are the general guidelines for zinc dosing:
Infants (0-6 months): 2 mg/day
Infants (7-12 months): 3 mg/day
Children (1-3 years): 3 mg/day
Children (4-8 years): 5 mg/day
Children (9-13 years): 8 mg/day
Adolescents (14-18 years): 11 mg/day for boys, 9 mg/day for girls
Adults (19 years and older): 11 mg/day for men, 8 mg/day for women
Pregnant and breastfeeding women need more zinc, with the recommended intake being 11-12 mg/day for pregnant women and 12-13 mg/day for breastfeeding women.
It’s important to note that some people may require higher doses of zinc, such as people with certain medical conditions that interfere with zinc absorption, vegetarians and vegans, and people with alcoholism. In such cases, a doctor may recommend zinc supplements.
It’s important to follow the recommended dosages and not exceed them, as taking too much zinc can be toxic and cause adverse effects. If you are considering taking zinc supplements, talk to your doctor first to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.
FAQs:
Is it good to take zinc Everyday?
Your body doesn’t need a large amount of zinc. The recommended daily allowance for adults is 8 – 11 mg. It’s common to have slightly low levels of zinc, but taking a multivitamin, plus eating a healthy diet, should give you all the zinc you need.
What food is highest in zinc?
Sources of Zinc. The richest food sources of zinc include meat, fish, and seafood . Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food, but beef contributes 20% of zinc intakes from food in the United States because it is commonly consumed . Eggs and dairy products also contain zinc.
When should you take zinc?
Zinc supplements are most effective if they are taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. However, if zinc supplements cause stomach upset, they may be taken with a meal. You should tell your health care professional if you are taking your zinc supplement with meals.
How does zinc help the immune system?
Zinc is found in cells throughout the body. It helps your immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses. Your body also uses zinc to make DNA (the genetic material in cells) and proteins. During pregnancy, infancy, childhood, and adolescence the body needs zinc to grow and develop properly.
Who should not take zinc?
Do not take zinc supplements if you take amiloride. Blood pressure medications, ACE Inhibitors — A class of medications called ACE inhibitors, used to treat high blood pressure, may decrease the levels of zinc in your blood. ACE inhibitors include: Captopril (Capoten)
Is it OK to take vitamin C and zinc everyday?
When taking Vitamin C and Zinc, there is no reason to worry about anything going wrong for taking the two together. They both are great vitamins and minerals that help with immune function in a synergistic relationship.
What are the signs of a zinc deficiency?
hair loss. changes in their nails. diarrhoea. more infections. feeling irritable. loss of appetite. impotence. eye problems.
Are bananas high in zinc?
Bananas aren’t the best zinc foods, but they’ll help you sneak a small amount into your diet. Large bananas that are about 8 to 9 inches long and weigh around 135 grams have . 20 milligrams of zinc.
How do you know you have zinc deficiency?
A zinc deficiency can be diagnosed using a blood test, urine test, or hair analysis. As some conditions can lead to a zinc deficiency, your doctor may do additional testing to discover the root cause.
Does zinc help you sleep?
Consumption of Zinc helps to have less wake-ups in the night. It is an excellent & safe sleep aid; and also has a calming & antidepressant effect. Along with helping to regulate sleep, Zinc has shown to improve the vividness of dreams.
Is zinc good for your hair?
Some studies have shown that our hair follicles are closely intertwined with parts of the immune system that support healthy hair growth. As a result, a zinc deficiency is thought to be associated with hair loss. For this reason, zinc supplements have historically been recommended as a hair loss treatment.
What organ does zinc help?
Function. Zinc is found in cells throughout the body. It is needed for the body’s defensive (immune) system to properly work. It plays a role in cell division, cell growth, wound healing, and the breakdown of carbohydrates.
What are the positive effects of zinc?
Zinc supports a number of functions in the human body. As well as supporting the immune system, it enables the body to make proteins and DNA, contributes to wound healing, and plays a role in childhood growth and development. It also has antioxidant properties.
What are the side effects of taking zinc everyday?
Zinc supplements are generally well tolerated, though they’ve been associated with adverse side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain in some people. Plus, exceeding 40 mg per day of elemental zinc can cause flu-like symptoms like fever, coughing, headache, and fatigue.
How much zinc should I take a day?
This key nutrient supports many body functions, including immune function. How much zinc should you take daily? It depends on your age and life stage, but experts recommend that most adults need between 8-11mg per day (more for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding).
What fruits contain zinc?
High zinc fruits include avocados, blackberries, pomegranates, raspberries, guavas, cantaloupes, apricots, peaches, kiwifruit, and blueberries. These fruits provide 2-12% of the daily value per cup.
Does zinc thin your blood?
According to MayoClinic.com, zinc may increase bleeding risk; hence, people suffering from bleeding disorders or taking medications that may increase bleeding risk should be wary of using zinc supplements and consult their healthcare providers regarding adjusted dosing.
