Zinc is a trace element that has a variety of functions in the body.
One of the most well-known functions of zinc is its support for the immune system. In combination with vitamin D and vitamin C, it is particularly good for supporting colds. 1 Zinc in combination with selenium primarily supports the T-cell-associated immune response. 2 T cells are a central pillar of our immune system. Without them, many bacteria and viruses cannot be fought. T cells recognize diseased cells through special receptors. When this happens, they secrete substances that attract other immune cells, which then kill the diseased cells. Some T cells even become cell destroyers. The different forms are developed depending on what the body needs.
Zinc is also a cofactor for many enzymes. Enzymes are proteins in the body that make many chemical reactions possible in the first place. Without them, we couldn't survive. 3 The intestines also benefit from zinc. There, it supports the immune system and ensures a healthy mucous membrane. Zinc is an important trace element, especially for people with Crohn's disease (a disease of the intestine that causes the mucous membrane to become pus-filled) or leaky gut syndrome (where the intestinal mucosa becomes permeable).
But it's not just essential for the body—it can also be supportive in cases of depression, especially in combination with conventional therapy. It normalizes glutamic acid metabolism in the body. 4 Glutamic acid is one of the most important stimulating neurotransmitters in our body and is often in short supply in cases of exhaustion-related depression. However, zinc needs to be taken correctly. It should be taken separately from other minerals and ideally in the evening before going to bed. It can sometimes cause nausea, but this side effect is reduced in the evening. If you experience severe nausea, it's a good idea to take zinc half an hour before a meal.
Zinc supplements come in a variety of forms. Zinc citrate is particularly popular because it is easily absorbed, but should be used with caution by people with histamine intolerance, as citrates can release histamine and cause discomfort. Zinc chelates (often zinc bisglycinate) are better tolerated and cause less nausea. Here, the zinc atom is embedded in two amino acids (building blocks of proteins), which protects it from stomach acid and ensures its absorption in the intestines.
You can find this compound in our NN Zinc preparation.
You can find this compound in our NN Zinc preparation.
Zinc is therefore a tough all-rounder and can be helpful in many difficult situations in life.
Dr. Reinhard Pichler – www.reinhardpichler.at
Sources:
- Gröber, Uwe; Respiratory infections and micronutrients, 2013, Haug Verlag in MVS Medizinverlage Stuttgart GmbH & Co. KG
- Muss, Claus; Immunological disorders of the T-cell-associated immune system due to deficiency of essential trace elements selenium, zinc, and copper, 2002, Karl F. Haug Verlag, in: MVS Medizinverlage Stuttgart GmbH & Co. KG
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Schubert, Claudia et al; The influence of the trace element zinc on the immune system,
2015, Journal of Laboratory Medicine | Volume 39: Issue 3 - Wang, Jessica et al; Zinc, Magnesium, Selenium and Depression: A Review of the Evidence, Potential Mechanisms and Implications, 2018, Nutrients
