How Zinc Supplementation Protects your Immunity
Minerals are inorganic substances, which the body cannot produce on its own. Although the amounts needed of some minerals are smaller than a grain of sand, they are crucial to the growth and production of bones, teeth, hair, blood, nerves, skin and hormones.
There are two types of minerals, major and trace minerals, classified by how much the body needs. Major minerals are grouped together because the body needs relatively significant amounts of them.
Trace minerals are needed in smaller amounts. These trace minerals include iron, copper, zinc, manganese, chromium, selenium and iodine.
Sources and Benefits of Zinc includes:
How Zinc Supplementation Protects your Immunity
Zinc protects your immunity in two ways:
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Zinc works on the immune system by activating T-lymphocytes
Studies have shown people with low zinc supplementation have reduced lymphocyte proliferation and other adverse effects on immunity which can be corrected by zinc supplementation.
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Works on Common Cold
We usually suffer from cold because of the virus called rhinovirus, which thrives and multiplies in the nasal and throat passage. Several studies have indicated that zinc supplementation taken in the form of lozenges reduces the length of a cold by one day when taken within 24 hours of the first signs and symptoms of a cold.
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 50 subjects (within 24 hours of developing the common cold) took a zinc acetate lozenge (13.3 mg zinc) or placebo every 2–3 wakeful hours. Compared with placebo, the zinc lozenges significantly reduced the duration of cold symptoms (cough, nasal discharge, and muscle aches)
3. Enzyme Function:
Zinc is integral for the functioning of many different enzymes. Helping enzymes to hold structure and sometimes acting as a cofactor, zinc is involved in a great many processes in the body.
A quick look at other important functions of zinc:
- Zinc is an essential mineral involved in the majority of metabolic processes in the body.
- Zinc is involved in the synthesis of collagen.
- Zinc is involved in carbohydrate metabolism, glucose utilization and, insulin production.
- Zinc is required for normal reproductive function.
- Zinc may help support natural resistance.
- Zinc is an essential nutrient involved in the formation of the bone matrix.
GNC Ultra Zinc Lozenges are scientifically designed to support a healthy immune system and provide antioxidant protection.
Each lozenge is blister packed to be portable and easy to use. Echinacea and Zinc – Key ingredients that help support natural resistance. Vitamins A and C – Essential antioxidant vitamins that protect cells against the damage caused by free radicals.
