Definition
Zinc is an essential nutrient, which means that the human body cannot produce it itself. It must therefore be taken in with food. It is a trace element and therefore occurs in the body only in small quantities. The daily intake is only around 10 mg. Nevertheless, zinc is indispensable for health and metabolism and fulfills numerous tasks in the human body.
Function
Zinc is a so-called co-enzyme, a helper for the enzymes in the body. It is essential for these enzymes and for the correct functioning of metabolic processes in the body. Without the presence of zinc, the enzymes cannot work properly and the natural functions of the body come to a standstill.
Zinc even plays an important role at the level of DNA, the human genetic material. Here, complexes of proteins and zinc regulate the processes that ultimately lead to the build-up or breakdown of body building blocks. Among the metabolic processes that take place correctly with the help of zinc is the metabolism of nutrients: The fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, as well as the detoxification and breakdown of alcohol are dependent on zinc.
Zinc is also important for the insulin metabolism. Zinc is an important element in the immune system and for the body’s defenses and supports the fight against infections. It also protects the body from harmful substances such as alcohol, UV radiation and smoke.
It plays a significant role in the synthesis and metabolism of hormones, such as thyroid or sex hormones. Zinc is an important trace element for the health and wound healing of the skin, for the resistance of bones and nails and for the health of scalp and hair. It is also an important nutrient for the human sensory organs, especially for vision.
General tasks
By its participation in almost every important metabolic process zinc has numerous tasks in the organism. Although it occurs only in small quantities, its importance for the health of the human body is particularly obvious in the case of zinc deficiency and its symptoms. Besides zinc is not only responsible for the physical health, it also seems to have a share in the mental well-being and the stabilization of positive mood.
Zinc supports the immune system and helps to protect against infections with viruses, bacteria and parasites. It ensures healthy skin, full and strong hair and strong finger and foot nails. The healing of wounds is also supported by zinc.
Due to its presence in the retina and its role in vitamin A metabolism, the vitamin of the visual process, it is essential for vision. Especially adaptation processes, i.e. getting used to twilight, seem to be regulated by zinc. In insulin metabolism, zinc binds and stores insulin, which is even used therapeutically in oral insulin preparations. It is also important for the metabolism of all three food components: fat, protein and carbohydrates. Zinc also keeps the hormone balance in balance
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