The lungs are one of our most efficient organs, but on the other hand they are also particularly vulnerable due to constant “breathing” contact with the environment. Lung diseases are still on the rise worldwide. Tuberculosis, popularly known as “consumption,” is still the most common infectious disease worldwide, affecting nine million people a year and killing about three million, according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). Developing countries are particularly affected, but the disease also continues to spread in Eastern Europe.
Malnutrition a common problem with tuberculosis
In addition to vitamin A, the trace element zinc plays an important role in the immune system. A typical feature of zinc deficiency is susceptibility to infection, as a deficiency of this micronutrient results in a lowering of the immune defenses. Frequent colds and flu-like infections are accordingly the consequences.
Recommended daily dose of 13 mg are contained in the following foods:
- 60 g rye germ
- 100 g wheat germ
- 150 g calf’s liver
- 200 g corned beef
- 250 g nuts
- 250 g hard cheese
- 300 g oatmeal
- 350 g wheat
- 350 g meat
Zinc strengthens the body’s defenses
Zinc intervenes directly and indirectly in the defense performances of the body. It is involved in the production of defense cells. As a study in developing countries shows, the trace element zinc, together with vitamin A, can reduce the use of anti-tuberculosis drugs and improve nutritional status. Senior citizens in particular often suffer from zinc deficiency due to poor nutrition and chronic diseases. However, people on a vegetarian diet are also affected, as the trace element is mainly found in animal products. In pneumonia and other respiratory infections, additional administration of zinc can also curb the infection: In a study, also recent, young children with pneumonia or other acute respiratory infections benefited from dietary supplementation with zinc. The combination of zinc with the protein component aspartate, e.g., zinc aspartate, is particularly well utilized by the body and at the same time gentle on the stomach.
